Who Is Lin Referring To When He Says The Barbarians

Who is Lin referring to when he says "the barbarians"?

The question of who Lin Yutang, the renowned Chinese author and intellectual, meant when he used the term "barbarians" is complex and multifaceted. It's crucial to understand that the term, in the context of Lin's writings, isn't a simple racial slur but rather a nuanced critique of societal behaviors and cultural clashes he observed, both within China and in the West. Understanding his perspective requires examining his life, his writings, and the historical context in which he operated.

Lin Yutang's Life and Times: A Background

Lin Yutang (林語堂, 1895-1976) lived through a period of immense upheaval in China. He witnessed the decline of the Qing dynasty, the rise of warlordism, the May Fourth Movement, the Japanese invasion, and the subsequent Chinese Civil War. This tumultuous backdrop significantly shaped his worldview and informed his use of the term "barbarian." He wasn't simply labeling people; he was commenting on attitudes and actions he found detrimental to progress and human flourishing. His extensive travels and exposure to both Eastern and Western cultures further enriched this perspective. He wasn't a staunch nationalist; instead, he was a cosmopolitan intellectual deeply concerned about the flaws he perceived in both Chinese and Western societies.

The Nuances of "Barbarian" in Lin Yutang's Work

Lin Yutang often employed the term "barbarian" (蠻夷, mán yí in Chinese) not as a straightforward ethnic or racial designation but rather as a descriptor of behavior. He used it to criticize:

1. Blind Nationalism and Chauvinism:

Lin was highly critical of unchecked nationalism and blind adherence to tradition, whether in China or the West. He saw these tendencies as "barbarian" because they stifled critical thinking, prevented meaningful cultural exchange, and fostered conflict. He believed true progress required embracing elements from different cultures and critically evaluating one's own. His "barbarians," in this sense, were those who rigidly clung to nationalistic ideals, rejecting any form of external influence or self-reflection. This critique was particularly relevant during a time marked by intense nationalism and escalating conflict.

2. Dogmatic Ideologies and Political Extremism:

Lin was equally critical of rigid ideologies and political extremism. He witnessed the devastating consequences of both communism and fascism in the 20th century and saw these ideologies as manifestations of "barbarian" tendencies. He argued that these ideologies, in their quest for absolute power, disregarded individual liberties, suppressed dissent, and ultimately led to widespread suffering. His critique wasn't directed at specific political parties but at the dogmatic approach to power and the suppression of human rights that characterized such movements. His experience during periods of political unrest in China greatly influenced this perspective.

3. Materialism and the Loss of Traditional Values:

Lin also criticized the materialistic tendencies he observed in both Chinese and Western societies. He lamented the decline of traditional values, such as family unity, personal integrity, and spiritual cultivation, which he believed were being replaced by a relentless pursuit of material wealth and superficial pleasures. This erosion of moral values he saw as a symptom of a "barbarian" mindset, prioritizing material gain over ethical considerations and spiritual growth. This observation reflects a common theme in his writing – a concern for the loss of traditional virtues amidst rapid societal change.

4. Lack of Tolerance and Intellectual Rigidity:

Perhaps the most consistent theme in Lin's use of "barbarian" is his critique of intolerance and intellectual rigidity. He was a staunch advocate for open-mindedness, critical thinking, and cross-cultural understanding. Those who resisted these ideals, those who clung to prejudices and refused to engage in constructive dialogue, were labeled as "barbarians" in his writings. This perspective underscores his intellectual curiosity and commitment to bridging cultural divides, rather than reinforcing barriers.

Contextualizing Lin's Use of "Barbarian": A Comparative Perspective

To fully understand Lin Yutang's use of "barbarian," we must compare it to similar terms used by other thinkers. For instance, the term's usage echoes the classical Chinese understanding of the "barbarians" (Yi) as those living outside the boundaries of civilized Chinese culture. However, Lin's application differed significantly from this traditional usage. He didn't merely identify specific ethnic groups as "barbarians" but rather criticized specific behaviors and attitudes he observed across various cultures.

This resonates with similar critiques found in Western thought. The Greek concept of "barbarian" also carried a sense of "otherness" and implied a lack of refinement. However, Lin's usage moves beyond simple ethnocentrism. He critiqued both "Eastern" and "Western" societies, demonstrating a broader perspective that transcends simple cultural chauvinism.

Examples in Lin Yutang's Writings

To illustrate his usage, consider these examples from his work:

• His critique of unchecked nationalism: In several of his essays and books, Lin criticizes the narrow-mindedness of those who refuse to learn from other cultures. These individuals, fixated on the superiority of their own nation, are presented as embodying "barbarian" traits.

• His condemnation of political extremism: His writings on the rise of totalitarian regimes, whether in Nazi Germany or Maoist China, often cast these movements as expressions of "barbarian" impulses, emphasizing their disregard for human life and freedom.

• His observations on material obsession: His literary works and essays often feature characters who prioritize material possessions over human connection and spiritual fulfillment, subtly depicting them as succumbing to "barbarian" tendencies.

It is important to note that Lin’s criticism wasn’t directed at specific ethnic groups but at the behavior he perceived to be destructive and antithetical to human progress. He aimed to provoke self-reflection within both Eastern and Western societies, prompting a re-evaluation of societal values and promoting a more tolerant and understanding world.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Critical Self-Reflection

Lin Yutang's use of the term "barbarian" is not a simple categorization but a complex and nuanced critique of societal flaws. He employed the term to challenge blind adherence to ideologies, unchecked nationalism, materialism, and intolerance. By applying the term to both East and West, he encouraged self-reflection and critical engagement with prevailing societal norms. While the term itself carries historical baggage, understanding its context within Lin's writings reveals a deep concern for human progress and a commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding. His legacy lies not in labeling people as "barbarians," but in challenging us to constantly evaluate our own behaviors and strive for a more compassionate and enlightened world. His work serves as a timely reminder that true civilization isn't about geographical location or ethnic identity, but about the cultivation of human virtues and the pursuit of wisdom. The "barbarians" in Lin Yutang's work are not a fixed group but rather a reflection of destructive tendencies present in all societies, a powerful commentary still relevant in today's complex and interconnected world.