Question

In the past we have always had a deep attachment for the ways of China and all of our institutions have been modeled upon those of T'ang. But our country occupies a different geographical location and our people's character is different from that of the Chinese. Hence, there is no reason to strain ourselves unreasonably to copy the Chinese way. [Mongolia] is a nation of savage beasts, and its language and customs are also different. Its dress and institutions should never be copied.

How does this passage give evidence of Wang’s opinion of cultural borrowing?

Answer 1

The passage shows that Wang favors pragmatic, selective borrowing rather than slavish imitation. Evidence:
- He acknowledges past admiration for Chinese (T’ang) models (“we have always had a deep attachment…modeled upon those of T’ang”), so he accepts borrowing from a respected culture.
- But he argues against unthinking copying because “our country occupies a different geographical location and our people's character is different,” so institutions must fit local conditions.
- He also insists some models are inappropriate to copy at all (e.g., “Mongolia…Its dress and institutions should never be copied”), showing he wants deliberate discrimination about which elements to adopt.

Summary: Wang’s view is utilitarian and adaptive — borrow what suits your own people and circumstances, reject what does not.