ABSTRACT
China is an interesting side-issue, a subject for detached speculation much as this chapter discusses the possible inhabitants of Mars. It may be explained in part by the remoteness of China through many generations, of splendid isolation, and in part by the difficulty of understanding her which is commonly felt by Western minds. This attitude of mind is found not only among the ignorant and parochially-minded, but also among persons of wide culture and interests. It begins by considering the factors in the situation which make the problems of China so important and relevant for Western students. Already the development of neighbouring countries has been and is being profoundly influenced by Chinese colonization. There is no element in the Great Society at once so unknown and as hopeful for human progress as China. Through many centuries China has matured its thought and learned many lessons in the art of living.
