China and Singapore: An Expat's Perspective
Dave, a Canadian with 14 years of experience living in China, shares his insights on Chinese culture, misconceptions about China, and how it compares to life in Singapore, where he currently works as a school teacher. He offers a unique perspective on the similarities between Americans and Chinese, China's economic future, and the perceived decline of the United States as a global power.
Similarities Between Americans and Chinese
Dave emphasizes the surprising similarities between Americans and Chinese people. He states that both groups are deeply patriotic, entrepreneurial, and hardworking. Even when living abroad, they maintain a strong sense of national identity. This contrasts with Canadians, who he believes are less patriotic, possibly due to high taxes.
Misconceptions About China
Control and Happiness
A major misconception Dave addresses is the idea that China is an excessively controlled society. He argues that the sheer size of the population makes total control impossible. Furthermore, he dispels the image of unhappy citizens constantly monitored by cameras. He notes that most Chinese people are happy and enjoy their lives, though he acknowledges that life can be difficult for those in smaller cities and rural areas.
Foreign Relations
Dave also believes the perception that China is actively trying to undermine the West is inaccurate. Instead, he thinks China aims to secure its place in the world and protect itself from external threats. While governmental tensions exist between the US and China, he asserts that the people themselves are as nationalistic as Americans.
Welcoming Culture
He highlights the welcoming and kind nature of the Chinese people. Foreigners are often invited into homes and treated with generosity, regardless of socioeconomic status. He shares anecdotes of both wealthy individuals offering expensive whiskey and taxi drivers sharing beers, emphasizing their openness and willingness to connect.
Life in China: Restrictions and Freedoms
Language Barrier
Dave admits that his own frustrations in China were partially self-imposed due to his limited Chinese language skills. While he could understand conversations, actively participating was challenging. This created difficulties in situations like banking or dealing with government services.
Taxes and Government Services
He also mentions restrictions such as high taxes without a perceived return in government services. However, he acknowledges preferential treatment in certain situations, such as healthcare, where English speakers were readily assisted. Restrictions on sending money abroad were also mentioned.
Shifting Social Landscape
Dave observed a change in China, starting around 2016, with a feeling that foreigners were being targeted more. He describes China as feeling like the "Wild West" when he first arrived, with a high degree of freedom and availability of goods. As China developed, he noted a tightening of regulations and a growing emphasis on morality.
Regional Differences
He notes the diverse nature of China, with significant differences between cities. He considers Shenzhen less friendly than other cities due to its large migrant population focused primarily on economic gain. However, he believes the Chinese people are resilient and positive, comparing them to a stream that finds its way around obstacles.
China's Future and Economic Status
Resilience and Innovation
Dave believes China's current economic challenges are temporary and potentially influenced by the US. He highlights China's resilience and its move away from producing low-value goods to innovative products. He believes China will continue to thrive.
US Decline
He expresses a controversial opinion that the US is declining as an empire due to financial issues and corruption. He criticizes the high tax burden in Western countries without adequate returns in public services.
Areas for Improvement
While generally positive about China, Dave points out the lack of support for people with disabilities or mental health challenges. He notes the absence of facilities and job opportunities for these individuals, contrasting it with the situation in Western countries and Singapore.
Singapore vs. China: Expat Life
Happiness and Independence
Dave prefers living in Singapore, stating he feels happier due to increased independence. He attributes this primarily to his limited language skills in China, which forced him to rely on others.
Work-Life Balance
He notes that Singapore offers a less desirable work-life balance compared to China. The demands of his teaching job in Singapore are significantly higher, with longer hours, more meetings, and greater parental involvement.
Cost of Living
While salaries are higher in Singapore, Dave emphasizes that the cost of living is also considerably higher. Traveling and dining out are significantly more expensive than in China.
Cultural Differences
He contrasts the relative absence of "Kevins" and "Karens" in China with the West. He believes Chinese culture encourages people to mind their own business, fostering a friendlier and less confrontational environment.
Daily Communication
Dave enjoys his Singaporean colleagues who are very bubbly. In China, he notes some bitterness from local Chinese teachers in International schools, due to salary disparities between local and foreign teachers. He acknowledges this is related to the marketing of schools, and hiring foreign teachers to cater to parents.
Lasting Impression
Despite any challenges he faced, Dave emphasizes the importance of experiencing China firsthand to truly understand it. He reiterates the friendliness of the Chinese people and the unique convenience of living there.
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