ABSTRACT
The concept of “balance” is central to mainstream East Asian world views (Wright, 1975). For example, optimal flow of life energy (chi) is typically regarded as requiring a balance between a number of counterpoised tensions, including the tension between ying (largely masculine) and yang (feminine). The notion of balance between competing principles inspires the general Confucian approbation for moderation in all things (chung yung; Young, 1994). This tenet of the Confucian value system, in turn, exerts a profound impact on communication norms throughout East Asia (Yum, 1991). Thus, Confucian doctrine enjoins people to maintain interpersonal equilibrium (jen-lum), including balance between expressing true emotion and desire by the individual and regulating that expression by propriety (li; Chang & Holt, 1991).
