The Discursive Constructions of Social Ideal in Modern Chinese History: A Study on Articles Collected in Two Journal Databases of Late Qing and Republic Era
Abstract： Abstract: Based on the Late Qing Dynasty Periodical Full-Text Database and the Republican Era Periodical Full-Text Database, this paper follows a grounded theory approach, carrying out discourse analysis on the more representative social ideals of modern China, investigating the correlation between them and the current “Chinese dream”, also discussing related issues. This article found both correlations and differences between the present “Chinese dream” and modern social ideals, with their common ground indicating that the “prosperity of the nation”, “rejuvenation of the nation” and the “people’s wellbeing” are both the dream of the Chinese nation and the dream of the Chinese people, and the historical connotation and national sentiment of the “rejuvenation of the nation” at its core led it not only to constitute the basis of the national identity in modern China, but also to promote a strong power of national identity today. However, it also indicates that “the rejuvenation of the nation” has a strong epochal spirit, therefore attentively observing the people’s requirement of the times, promptly responding and adopting effective actions represent important tasks faced by the Chinese leadership.
