DIPLOMATIC SOCIETY BOOK CLUB
Silk and Knots of Chinese Governance by Prof Paul Zilungisele Tembe
A Book Review by Kirtan Bhana

29 November 2024

Prof. Paul Zilungisele Tembe's latest work, Silk and Knots of Chinese Governance, is a rich and multifaceted exploration of the intricate threads that weave together China's ancient past and its contemporary governance model. The title itself offers a metaphorical glimpse into the complexity of Chinese civilization, evoking imagery of silk for its finesse and knots for its structured discipline. This duality aptly frames the book’s central themes: the performative language of governance, the legacy of dynasties, and the crucial interplay of indigenous knowledge systems in shaping a nation’s progress.

Prof. Tembe, a renowned sinologist, employs an auto-ethnographic approach to bring his academic rigour and personal insights to bear. By drawing on his qualitative research and deep engagement with Chinese culture and governance, he crafts a narrative that not only examines China’s unique trajectory, but also highlights parallels with African civilizations. This comparison broadens the book's scope, making it a seminal work for readers interested in cross-cultural governance and social cohesion.

Jingshen, Chengyu, and the Laosanspian
At the heart of Silk and Knots of Chinese Governance lies a deep dive into the performative language structures of Mandarin, particularly through the lens of chengyu, four-character idioms that encapsulate profound wisdom and historical lessons. Tembe unpacks how these idioms, steeped in ancient Chinese philosophy, have shaped both the cultural identity and the governance framework of modern China.

An illuminating example of this cultural continuity is the Laosanspian or “Three Constantly Read Articles.” These short essays, written by Mao Zedong before the establishment of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) in 1949, are infused with the jingshen (spirit) of the Chinese nation. They include:
1.    Serve the People – emphasizing selfless devotion to public welfare.
2.    In Memory of Norman Bethune – a tribute to internationalism and dedication to humanitarian values.
3.    The Foolish Old Man Who Removed the Mountains – an allegory of perseverance and collective effort.

The Laosanspian, presented in the concise and evocative chengyu, exemplifies how China’s millennia-old civilization informs modern governance. These texts are integral to China's education system, instilling values of discipline, steadfastness, and innovation, qualities that have propelled China's global emergence.

Chinese Governance: A Communitarian Model

Tembe provides a compelling analysis of how China’s governance model seamlessly integrates its dynastic legacies with modern socialist principles. He challenges the oft-cited notion that China’s success is purely economic, arguing instead that its achievements stem from a deeply rooted communitarian ethos. This ethos prioritizes social cohesion and functional systems over individualistic pursuits.

Drawing parallels with African civilizations, Tembe highlights how indigenous knowledge systems have historically encouraged harmony and prosperity in both regions. In this context, he critiques the Western emphasis on individualism, which he suggests has led to societal fragmentation and political disarray. By contrast, China’s governance model, which respects collective traditions while encouraging innovation, offers an alternative paradigm that could resonate with African nations seeking to align their development with indigenous values.

Africa and China, A Mutual Learning Process
One of the most intriguing aspects of the book is its exploration of the mutual learning opportunities between Africa and China. Tembe argues that Africa's indigenous knowledge systems, much like China’s, can be pivotal in shaping its developmental trajectory. He draws parallels between the African philosophy of Ubuntu, which emphasizes interconnectedness, and China’s emphasis on collective well-being.

In discussing the incorporation of African indigenous knowledge into school curriculums, Tembe envisions a future where education aligns more closely with cultural realities, sparking innovation through the dynamics of culture and tradition. He sees this as a path toward a “familiar environment” that empowers African societies, much as China’s education system has leveraged its historical legacies to achieve remarkable advancement.

Performative Language as a Tool of Governance
A key contribution of Silk and Knots of Chinese Governance is its analysis of Mandarin as a performative language that transcends mere communication to become a tool of governance. Tembe explains how the structure and symbolism of the Chinese language reflect the nation’s collective psyche. Mandarin, with its emphasis on context and relational meaning, mirrors the interdependence and continuity inherent in Chinese governance.

This linguistic perspective sheds light on China’s ability to maintain stability and cohesion despite rapid modernization. Tembe suggests that African nations, with their rich diversity of indigenous languages, can draw inspiration from this approach. By revitalizing and integrating these languages into governance and education, Africa can instill a deeper sense of identity and resilience.

Global Implications and the Civilizational Initiative
Prof. Tembe positions China’s rise as not just an economic phenomenon but a civilizational one. He aligns his narrative with President Xi Jinping’s Global Civilization Initiative, which promotes mutual learning and dialogue among cultures. In this context, Tembe sees China as a nation willing to shoulder the responsibility of guiding the world toward a more inclusive and dynamic global paradigm.

This vision challenges the Western-dominated narrative of development and governance, offering a model rooted in cultural authenticity and adaptability. For African nations, this alignment with China presents an opportunity to forge a path that is both modern and deeply rooted in the dynamism of heritage.

Silk and Knots of Chinese Governance is a masterful exploration of the threads that connect history, culture, and governance. Prof. Tembe’s interdisciplinary approach provides a nuanced understanding of China’s rise and its relevance for Africa and the wider world. By delving into performative language, indigenous knowledge, and historical continuity, the book offers a blueprint for sustainable development grounded in cultural authenticity.

As China emerges as a global leader, Tembe’s work invites readers to reflect on the values and systems that nurture true progress. For African nations, the parallels drawn in this book offer a roadmap for leveraging indigenous knowledge to create governance models that are both functional and transformative.

In a world increasingly defined by cultural exchange, Silk and Knots of Chinese Governance is a timely reminder of the enduring power of ancient wisdom in shaping modern realities. - TDS