Hello Readers!
I have only a few days left until I leave for China! It's definitely an exciting thought to know this time next week I will be on the other side of the planet. It seemed like only yesterday I started this project, but now I am ready to go to China and begin my internship at the law firm.
I have a few updates regarding the internship. Turns out I will be interning underneath the director of the biggest law firm in China! As scary as it may seem, this is a great honor and opportunity I am very thankful to have. Hopefully my Chinese has improved enough to avoid myself unnecessary embarrassment when I pronounce characters incorrectly.
I have continued to research my topic, focusing on the characteristics that define collectivism and individualism. If I am going to identify the trend of China's shift towards individualism, I need to know what indicates either ideology. Additionally, I have done some research on how business is conducted in international law firms. Although I'm sure there are many similarities between American and Chinese law firms, but I look forward to experiencing the differences.
I will continue to post blogs updating you guys on my progress. Thanks so much for reading!
Countdown to China: 4 days!!!
-Ishan Patel
Friday, February 22, 2013
Saturday, February 16, 2013
Individualism: All for one or one for all?
Hello Readers!
Individualism is a defining characteristic of Western culture. People are encouraged to seek out opportunity and thrive on their own. Individual rights are strongly focused on in individualism, and a group is viewed as a collection of individuals rather than a collective whole. Individualism is defined as "a doctrine that the interests of the individual are or ought to be ethically paramount" and "a theory maintaining the political and economic independence of the individual and stressing individual initiative, action, and interests; also : conduct or practice guided by such a theory."
This ideal maintains that the rights of a group come only from the rights of the individuals in that group. There are many extremes that can be taken when discussing individualism. For example, individualism was a concept used to explain the social dissolution and anarchy that occurred during the French Revolution. Although individualism is an ideology used to fight against oppression, when taken too far, the rights of the individual can overpower the needs of the collective group. A French philosopher, Alexis de Tocqueville, considered individualism to be a selfish ideal that disposed people to think only about themselves. That's an interesting opinion of an ideology that is extremely influential in modern day society. It is probably safe to say a happy medium between concern for individual rights and the needs of the collective group needs to be established.
Well, now you guys know a bit more about one of the doctrines I will be researching while in China. I doubt I will see such extreme cases as the examples I have given, but I am very curious to find out just how influential Individualism is in China and its business litigation. Thank you everyone for reading my blog, I will continue to make new posts weekly to keep everyone updated!
Countdown to China: 10 days!
-Ishan Patel
Individualism is a defining characteristic of Western culture. People are encouraged to seek out opportunity and thrive on their own. Individual rights are strongly focused on in individualism, and a group is viewed as a collection of individuals rather than a collective whole. Individualism is defined as "a doctrine that the interests of the individual are or ought to be ethically paramount" and "a theory maintaining the political and economic independence of the individual and stressing individual initiative, action, and interests; also : conduct or practice guided by such a theory."
This ideal maintains that the rights of a group come only from the rights of the individuals in that group. There are many extremes that can be taken when discussing individualism. For example, individualism was a concept used to explain the social dissolution and anarchy that occurred during the French Revolution. Although individualism is an ideology used to fight against oppression, when taken too far, the rights of the individual can overpower the needs of the collective group. A French philosopher, Alexis de Tocqueville, considered individualism to be a selfish ideal that disposed people to think only about themselves. That's an interesting opinion of an ideology that is extremely influential in modern day society. It is probably safe to say a happy medium between concern for individual rights and the needs of the collective group needs to be established.
Well, now you guys know a bit more about one of the doctrines I will be researching while in China. I doubt I will see such extreme cases as the examples I have given, but I am very curious to find out just how influential Individualism is in China and its business litigation. Thank you everyone for reading my blog, I will continue to make new posts weekly to keep everyone updated!
Countdown to China: 10 days!
-Ishan Patel
Friday, February 15, 2013
What is Collectivism?
Hello Readers!
The word collectivism has been used a lot when I refer to my project, so I thought I would dedicate this blog to really explaining what it means to be part of a collectivist society. Merriam-Webster defines collectivism as "a political or economic theory advocating collective control especially over production and distribution; also : a system marked by such control." This definition encompasses the political side to collectivism while the secondary definition of "emphasis on collective rather than individual action or identity," illustrates the ideology behind collectivism.
Generally, Asian cultures are seen as being more collectivist than many Western cultures, China being a prime example. When in a collectivist society, the focus on the individual is not emphasized. In fact, the purpose of the individual in a collectivism is to further benefit the group, or the whole. Unity is very important and people must work together to further each other's goals and contribute to the overall well-being of the group. In extreme cases, some believe the goals of the individual must be sacrificed for the benefit of the group. An example of this belief is evident is a quote from Ayn Rand who states "Collectivism means the subjugation of the individual to a group -- whether to a race, class or state does not matter. Collectivism holds that man must be chained to collective action and collective thought for the sake of what is called 'the common good'."
On the other end of the spectrum, rather than viewing collectivism as a form of socialism, many people see it as a selfless ideology that teaches individuals love and appreciation for all the members in their community. Since one would always work to benefit society, everyone benefits each other through unified efforts. Jean Jacques Rousseau's Du Social Contract raises the concept that the individual only find true freedom when coinciding with the "general will" of the community.
I hope you all enjoyed a little background on collectivism. For the next blog post, I will highlight key aspects of individualism. My goal is to help my readers understand what indications I may be looking for when deciding whether a general shift toward individualism is even present in China's business litigation.
Countdown to China: 11 days!
-Ishan Patel
The word collectivism has been used a lot when I refer to my project, so I thought I would dedicate this blog to really explaining what it means to be part of a collectivist society. Merriam-Webster defines collectivism as "a political or economic theory advocating collective control especially over production and distribution; also : a system marked by such control." This definition encompasses the political side to collectivism while the secondary definition of "emphasis on collective rather than individual action or identity," illustrates the ideology behind collectivism.
Generally, Asian cultures are seen as being more collectivist than many Western cultures, China being a prime example. When in a collectivist society, the focus on the individual is not emphasized. In fact, the purpose of the individual in a collectivism is to further benefit the group, or the whole. Unity is very important and people must work together to further each other's goals and contribute to the overall well-being of the group. In extreme cases, some believe the goals of the individual must be sacrificed for the benefit of the group. An example of this belief is evident is a quote from Ayn Rand who states "Collectivism means the subjugation of the individual to a group -- whether to a race, class or state does not matter. Collectivism holds that man must be chained to collective action and collective thought for the sake of what is called 'the common good'."
On the other end of the spectrum, rather than viewing collectivism as a form of socialism, many people see it as a selfless ideology that teaches individuals love and appreciation for all the members in their community. Since one would always work to benefit society, everyone benefits each other through unified efforts. Jean Jacques Rousseau's Du Social Contract raises the concept that the individual only find true freedom when coinciding with the "general will" of the community.
I hope you all enjoyed a little background on collectivism. For the next blog post, I will highlight key aspects of individualism. My goal is to help my readers understand what indications I may be looking for when deciding whether a general shift toward individualism is even present in China's business litigation.
Countdown to China: 11 days!
-Ishan Patel
Saturday, February 9, 2013
Interning at one of China's largest law firms
Hello Readers!
For my third post I thought I would give you all a little more information about where I will be interning in China. As you know, I am going to China to answer my research question: How might China’s shift to individualism affect business litigation in a previously collectivist society?
I am going to be interning at King and Wood Mallesons, one of the largest law firms in China. This will be an amazing (and a little intimidating) opportunity I can't wait to experience. This prestigious firm specializes in multiple areas such as international trade, intellectual property, and finance. Since communication to China is a tricky thing to organize, I have yet to discover the exact logistics of what I will be doing at the firm. Whether I am assigned to one adviser or meet many, I look forward to working with and learning from the amazing lawyers at the firm. If anyone is interested in reading more about the firm, just visit http://www.kingandwood.com.
This picture illustrates a successful relationship with a major mining company. King and Wood represents many clients like this, which contributes to their great reputation. Although I probably won't get to see a high tech machine like this one, I expect to learn a lot from one of China's biggest law firms.
With only 16 days left until I go to China, I will continue to research my topic and build up my knowledge on Chinese collectivism and individualism. I can't say I know what to expect when answering my research question, but the mystery makes it that much more exciting as I continue on with my research project.
Thank you all for reading my blog and I will keep posting updates on the progress of my project!
-Ishan Patel (adventurer extraordinaire)
For my third post I thought I would give you all a little more information about where I will be interning in China. As you know, I am going to China to answer my research question: How might China’s shift to individualism affect business litigation in a previously collectivist society?
I am going to be interning at King and Wood Mallesons, one of the largest law firms in China. This will be an amazing (and a little intimidating) opportunity I can't wait to experience. This prestigious firm specializes in multiple areas such as international trade, intellectual property, and finance. Since communication to China is a tricky thing to organize, I have yet to discover the exact logistics of what I will be doing at the firm. Whether I am assigned to one adviser or meet many, I look forward to working with and learning from the amazing lawyers at the firm. If anyone is interested in reading more about the firm, just visit http://www.kingandwood.com.
This picture illustrates a successful relationship with a major mining company. King and Wood represents many clients like this, which contributes to their great reputation. Although I probably won't get to see a high tech machine like this one, I expect to learn a lot from one of China's biggest law firms.
With only 16 days left until I go to China, I will continue to research my topic and build up my knowledge on Chinese collectivism and individualism. I can't say I know what to expect when answering my research question, but the mystery makes it that much more exciting as I continue on with my research project.
Thank you all for reading my blog and I will keep posting updates on the progress of my project!
-Ishan Patel (adventurer extraordinaire)
Friday, February 8, 2013
Countdown to China!
Hello Readers,
In just a few short weeks I will be departing to China! I am very excited to begin my journey, but first I had to do some research and studying here at home. For the past week, I have been focusing on improving my reading and speaking skills in Chinese. I also have done additional research on my topic.
Yes, I did watch a Kung Fu movie in Chinese (this did not take away from the awesome martial arts scenes) and I have tried listening to some Chinese radio stations, which are quite difficult to decipher. Although it is a work in progress, I hope to improve my Chinese as much as I can before traveling to China.
Additionally, I have continued to find articles or papers that will help supplement my research. One study I found to be very interesting was "Doing Business in the 21stCentury with the New Generation of Chinese Managers:A Study of Generational Shifts in Work Values in China." Sadly, the local library has not been too helpful in my research since finding books discussing China's shift to individualism is no easy task.
My plans until I leave for China are as follows:
1) Improve my Chinese! Undoubtedly, the biggest difficulty I will be facing over my six weeks in China is the language barrier. Although I have learned a good amount of Chinese, improving my skills will only benefit my research trip. Ironically, I think I will end up learning Chinese the hard way: by being forced to learn in China while I stumble around trying not to look like a confused tourist.
2) Research, read, and research some more! I will keep on reading as much about my topic as I can. I am also going to look into how business is conducted in Chinese law firms (that way I have at least a small idea of what to do when I arrive in China). All of this is very new to me since I have never been to China, but I am really looking forward to the opportunity.
Thank you everyone for following my blog :) I will keep you all updated on how everything is going.
Countdown to China: 18 days!
-Ishan Patel
In just a few short weeks I will be departing to China! I am very excited to begin my journey, but first I had to do some research and studying here at home. For the past week, I have been focusing on improving my reading and speaking skills in Chinese. I also have done additional research on my topic.
Yes, I did watch a Kung Fu movie in Chinese (this did not take away from the awesome martial arts scenes) and I have tried listening to some Chinese radio stations, which are quite difficult to decipher. Although it is a work in progress, I hope to improve my Chinese as much as I can before traveling to China.
Additionally, I have continued to find articles or papers that will help supplement my research. One study I found to be very interesting was "Doing Business in the 21stCentury with the New Generation of Chinese Managers:A Study of Generational Shifts in Work Values in China." Sadly, the local library has not been too helpful in my research since finding books discussing China's shift to individualism is no easy task.
My plans until I leave for China are as follows:
1) Improve my Chinese! Undoubtedly, the biggest difficulty I will be facing over my six weeks in China is the language barrier. Although I have learned a good amount of Chinese, improving my skills will only benefit my research trip. Ironically, I think I will end up learning Chinese the hard way: by being forced to learn in China while I stumble around trying not to look like a confused tourist.
2) Research, read, and research some more! I will keep on reading as much about my topic as I can. I am also going to look into how business is conducted in Chinese law firms (that way I have at least a small idea of what to do when I arrive in China). All of this is very new to me since I have never been to China, but I am really looking forward to the opportunity.
Thank you everyone for following my blog :) I will keep you all updated on how everything is going.
Countdown to China: 18 days!
-Ishan Patel
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
Thank you for reading my blog! Here I will post information about my senior research project, highlighting my results, travels, and progress. Asia's culture has been viewed as mostly collectivist, but recent studies suggest a shift towards individualism. Coming from an Asian background myself, this supposed shift towards individualism immediately caught my interest. My research question is: How
might China’s shift to individualism affect business litigation in a previously
collectivist society? I personally believe many laws will be effected, especially intellectual property and even patenting rights. Certainly China's new laws would be different from the previously established collectivist laws. These concepts are the ones I look forward to exploring.
I have always had an interest in Chinese culture, especially after taking Mandarin Chinese at my high school since the 7th grade. The idea of studying business laws in China was immediately intriguing to me, so I set out to find a method to do so. I have the privilege of interning at Hongrui law firm in ShenZhen. Studying at the law firm will allow me to have access to many mentors and help me answer my research question. I mean, interning in China itself seems awesome!
I will be staying with a Chinese family, allowing me to fully immerse myself in Chinese culture. Although I have studied Chinese traditions at school, going to China and personally experiencing the culture is an irreplaceable educational opportunity I cannot pass up. On a side note, I hope I can improve my Chinese while staying there! Picking up another language would be a great bonus to this trip.
I will continue to post updates on my progress, including new concepts I may learn, places I may visit, and summaries of how collectivism or individualism is evident in every day life in China. It will be an exciting journey, an experience unlike any I have previously had. Thanks for following me and sharing in that experience! I look forward to keeping you guys up to date on how things are going.
-Ishan Patel (new, yet excited blogger)
I have always had an interest in Chinese culture, especially after taking Mandarin Chinese at my high school since the 7th grade. The idea of studying business laws in China was immediately intriguing to me, so I set out to find a method to do so. I have the privilege of interning at Hongrui law firm in ShenZhen. Studying at the law firm will allow me to have access to many mentors and help me answer my research question. I mean, interning in China itself seems awesome!
I will be staying with a Chinese family, allowing me to fully immerse myself in Chinese culture. Although I have studied Chinese traditions at school, going to China and personally experiencing the culture is an irreplaceable educational opportunity I cannot pass up. On a side note, I hope I can improve my Chinese while staying there! Picking up another language would be a great bonus to this trip.
I will continue to post updates on my progress, including new concepts I may learn, places I may visit, and summaries of how collectivism or individualism is evident in every day life in China. It will be an exciting journey, an experience unlike any I have previously had. Thanks for following me and sharing in that experience! I look forward to keeping you guys up to date on how things are going.
-Ishan Patel (new, yet excited blogger)
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