Why the History is Repeating Itself: From Chinese Philosophy to Multiculturalism
Traditionally, before the 17th century, the Chinese used the term Yidi (夷狄) to refer to foreigners. In this context, "foreigner" is defined not by race or ethnicity but by culture. Therefore, anyone not living under the Chinese cultural system was considered Yidi. Historically, China was ruled by Mongolians (during the Yuan Dynasty 元朝/ A.D. 1271-1368) and Manchus (during the Qing Dynasty 清朝/ A.D. 1636-1912). Despite their different ethnicities, both groups adopted Chinese traditions and governed according to the Chinese cultural system. Hence, even though the Mongolians and Manchus were ethnically distinct from the Han majority, the Yuan and Qing Dynasties are still recognized as legitimate Chinese dynasties rather than foreign regimes. Regarding the term "Yidi," which refers to foreigners, an approximate English translation might be "barbarian." If you're a Westerner reading this, you might find the ancient Chinese perspective uncomfortably familiar, ...