Sorry, this one is in Dutch. But I’ll comment in English. Click here (De_essentie_van_China.pdf) to have the official introduction (in Dutch) of Jeanne’s book.
Yeah, I know, one more about China. So, I am starting a new section on my blog dedicated to all those China specialists and their insights.
As Jeanne is from my home town – Ghent, Belgium – she gets my special attention. As she also uses an Apple laptop, she deserves it even more.
On Monday 25 September our Belgian ambassador, Bernard Pierre, opened his embassy for Jeanne to introduce her book. He opens his embassy A LOT recently, can’t criticize him for not reaching out to the Belgian community… The room was well filled with an attentive Dutch speaking audience.

Let me be straight – I was expecting the usual ramblings about how to behave here and do business. Well, she came with a very different angle, very much focused on the cultural and philosophical impact that Chinese history still has on its citizens. I might have a more straight-to-the-point attitude – I am an engineer for something – but I have to admit that explaining how our Chinese friends behave today referring to Confucius, Taoism and tradition can make a lot of sense for foreigners who have little clue about the country. It makes the pragmatic tips more acceptable.
In general I agree with her point of view, except for some minor aspects. Living here every day gives one a different perspective.
As for the impact of the old philosophies I would even say (that was not so well addressed in the presentation), after decades of brainwashing and removing anything closely related to culture, religion and philosophy I see a clear revival. Up to the point the Chinese government is embracing Confucius thought and traditions – Buddhism is OK too. Newspapers are filled with articles on Confucius and there is a hot debate on what Confucius is supposed to look like. Well, that’s settled as there is now an “official” statue and likeness of the philosopher. In another blog posting I’ll show you my very own official portrait of Confucius.

Jeanne might be disappointed I did not (yet) buy her book. I made a promise to first read the pile of other China books and euh… I concentrate on English literature.
I hope Flemish businesspeople will take the time to study her side of the story before heading to China unprepared. Wishful thinking, I know, watching so many clueless foreigners tripping over the booby-traps in business. Anyway, some never learn. Like listening to people who know the right door to knock on. Of course, they know best and those pests called “lobbyists” (they do not only exist in D.C.) dare ask for consultancy fees. How dare they.