The two ethnic groups that remain fundamentally different from the Han Chinese - in terms of history, culture, language, religion and physical appearance - are the Uighurs and Tibetans. In these two groups, the Han Chinese come face to face with difference. Martin Jacques appearancechineseculture share on social
No one likes to admit they are racist or bear prejudices. Nor do they even like to be open and honest when they witness racist behaviour. Martin Jacques admitbearbehaviour Change image and share on social
The election of Shinzo Abe as the leader of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic party and now prime minister will have profound repercussions for Japan and East Asia. Most western commentary during the premiership of Junichiro Koizumi has been concerned with the extent to which Japan has allowed a freer rein to market forces. Martin Jacques abeallowasia share on social
There has always been something less than wholesome about New Labour. But Blair for a long time had an easy ride. There was the whopping majority. There was the relief that the Tories were finally gone. There was the grand hyperbole. Martin Jacques blaireasyfinally share on social
There are a host of ethnic minorities in China, but they often have a weak sense of identity and are relatively small in total number. History has taught the Han that other groups will and should ultimately be absorbed and assimilated as Han. There is a belief that the Han enjoy a superior and far more advanced culture. Martin Jacques absorbadvanceassimilate share on social
It is much easier to learn another language when you are young, enthusiastic and unembarrassed. Martin Jacques easyenthusiasticlanguage Change image and share on social
One of the unique features of China is that, notwithstanding the fact that it has a population of 1.3 billion, around 92% regard themselves as Han Chinese. This is quite different from the world's other most populous countries, such as India, the U.S. and Indonesia, which are ethnically diverse. Martin Jacques billionchinachinese share on social
Following the end of the Cold War, there was much discussion concerning the point of NATO. In the event, it was reinvented as a means of reducing Russia's reach on its western frontiers and seeking to isolate it. Its former East European client states were admitted to NATO, as were the Baltic states. Martin Jacques admitbalticclient share on social
Unlike the Soviet Communist party, the Chinese Communist party chose to introduce capitalism. Martin Jacques capitalismchinesechoose Change image and share on social
If the truth be told, we are a society that is dripping in racism. This is not in the least surprising. For the best part of two centuries, we British ruled the waves, controlled two-fifths of the planet, and believed it was our responsibility to bring civilisation to those who allegedly lacked it. Martin Jacques allegedlybelievebring share on social