Deepening the China-Africa Cultural Understanding: Difference Between Chinese and African Martial Arts Conceptions

Abstract

China and Africa have become culturally closer as the relationship and economic endowment between both sides are growing in leaps and bounds. The martial arts culture can provide a new outlook to deepen the China-Africa cultural understanding as well as to open new windows for other cultures to better connect with Chinese and African people. In this regard, this paper looks into the African and Chinese conceptions of martial arts cultures from historical and traditional perspectives. In fact, the trinity made of“Combat+Spirituality+Dance” that constitutes the core values of African Martial Arts is investigated. In addition, some explanatory examples such as Engolo，Dambe，Laamb，Donga, Zulu Stick Fighting etc., still practiced in Africa today and that show the uniqueness of the African martial arts culture are displayed. Moreover, the Chinese concept of Wushu which has its own unique core philosophy rooted in Taoism, Confucianism and Buddhism is examined. These cultural complexes of knowledge, beliefs and practices created by the histories of China and Africa have set up avenues for new possibilities to boost the China-Africa cultural exchange agenda and deepen the mutual understanding between both sides.

Keywords: African Martial Arts; Chinese Wushu; Cultural Understanding; Martial Arts Culture;