National Image

This book introduces researchers, students and the general public to an intriguing phenomenon at the intersection of diverse fields: national branding. In particular, it uses representative cases particularly to show how China responded to major challenges, not only in the distant past, but also especially in our hectic age of national image construction. By pursuing an interdisciplinary, socio-historical approach, the book sheds new light on the role of cultural symbols in national image building. As such, readers will learn how China has exploited its black-and-white tradition calligraphy and painting in the construction of a national image.

Provides a holistic, interdisciplinary and in-depth study of China's national image based on constructivism Examines international misinterpretations of China's cultural symbols Studies the way China has responded to the accelerated age of national branding Analyzes the fierce competition for semiotic resources in national image construction through cases from around the globe

Autorentext

Dr Xiangfei Meng is Professor affiliated with the School of Marxism, Shanghai International Studies University, P. R. China. He completed his doctorate in International Relations at Shanghai International Studies University in 2014. His primary research area is international relations, particularly politics and its international communication. Having published over 20 research articles and received 10 research grants, Dr. Meng is a "rising star" researcher in the realm of international politics and intercultural communication.

Inhalt
Introduction.- Chapter 1 An Overview of Theories of National Image.- Chapter 2 Perceptual Barriers to China's National Image and Their Causes.- Chapter 3 National Image from a Constructivist Perspective.- Chapter 4 The Application of Cultural Symbols and the misunderstanding of Cultural Symbols.- Chapter 5 The International Communication of Cultural Symbols in the Construction of China's National Image.- Chapter 6 China's Black and White Art: An Important Cultural Symbol of China's Peaceful Development.