China, when it first beacme a communist nation, introduced a "closed door" policy and isolated itself from the rest of the world. now through tourism and trdae China comes into contact with the rest of the world. What motivated China to open it's doors to the West? How has this contact challenged the traditional beliefs and pratices of the Communist state in China?

I know China kept their doors closed because the rest of the world was both alien and hostile towards communism. And , I also know that the beliefs and practices of communism in china would be challenged by the democratic ways of the west, but why was China motivated to open its doors to the west in the first place???

Money! Money! Money!

China wants the huge amounts of money it can earn with trade and tourism. It learned that cooperation with other countries is far more profitable than isolation. And now that China is making so much more money, many of its people are able to live much more comfortable lives.

I also saw the same thing happen in Vietnam in the last 13 years or so.

Thank-you. Would you happen to know any links that talk about how the west influenced China?

You're welcome. Check these sites.

http://www.chinese-culture.net/

http://www.tannah.net/asia/eastwest.htm

http://www.bjreview.com.cn/expert/txt/2008-01/24/content_97182.htm

China was motivated to open its doors to the West primarily due to economic reasons. When China first became a communist nation, it implemented a command economy and central planning, which proved to be less effective in promoting economic growth and development. The Chinese government realized that it needed to open up to the global market and attract foreign investments and technologies to modernize its economy.

One of the key factors that motivated China to open its doors was the recognition of the potential economic benefits that could come from trade and foreign investment. By engaging with the rest of the world, China gained access to new markets for its goods and services, as well as opportunities for exporting its abundant labor force. This would help drive economic growth and reduce poverty in the country.

Additionally, China also saw the opening up policy as a way to benefit from Western technological advancements and expertise. By allowing global collaboration and interaction, China could acquire knowledge and skills that were essential for industrialization and technological development.

Furthermore, opening up to the West also played a strategic role in enhancing China's global influence and diplomatic relations. It allowed China to become an active player in global politics and trade, promoting its status as a major world power.

This contact with the West has indeed challenged the traditional beliefs and practices of the Communist state in China. The exposure to Western ideas, values, and democratic systems has created a clash with the Chinese Communist Party's ideology and methods of governance. It has led to increased demands for individual freedoms, human rights, and political reforms among the Chinese population.

The influx of Western goods, media, and cultural influences has also posed challenges to China's traditional cultural practices and norms. It has led to a gradual erosion of certain aspects of Chinese culture and values, as the younger generation is increasingly exposed to Western lifestyles and ideals.

Furthermore, economic reforms and global trade integration have created disparities in wealth distribution, leading to social inequalities and tensions within Chinese society. This has challenged the Communist Party's commitment to egalitarian principles and raised concerns about social stability.

Overall, the opening up of China to the West has brought significant economic benefits, but it has also presented substantial challenges to the traditional beliefs and practices of the Communist state. The Chinese government has had to navigate these complexities and find a balance between economic growth, social stability, and political control to ensure its continued legitimacy and power.