The Social Transformation of China Under the Development of Table Tennis
The concept of cultural identity involves the collision between individuals and external cultural influences, shaped by their own cognitive processes, and represents a consensus and recognition of people's cultural inclinations. Despite its status as a foreign sport, table tennis has emerged as the predominant athletic activity in China; however, its fundamental nature is seldom examined through the lens of cultural identity.
Methods
Drawing on social identity theory, this paper employs a holistic ethnographic approach, utilizing the Chinese nation as the reference group and integrating China's historical development and specific national conditions to examine social reform in China.
Results
This paper provides an analysis of the dissemination and evolution of Western sports culture and table tennis culture in China within the context of national dynamics, delineating three distinct temporal phases: 1840-1949 (the apex of national identity), 1949-2000 (the imperative for national identity), and 2000-present (the metamorphosis of cultural identity). Prior to the establishment of New China, there was a pressing demand within the Chinese nation for a sense of national identity. Subsequently, post-revolutionary China sought to assert itself on the global stage. In the 21st century, China has been dedicated to fortifying its cultural self-assurance. In contemporary China, the Chinese people's appreciation of table tennis culture is still considered as part of a broader Western sports culture. However, influenced by the needs of national identity, table tennis culture has gradually evolved into "Chinese table tennis culture", which is widely embraced by the Chinese populace in terms of national image, pride, historical legacy, global leadership and other elements.
Discussion
Social needs are different in different periods and backgrounds. The development of table tennis cannot be separated from the historical background of China. From the development of table tennis culture in China, we can find the whole development course of Chinese society.