The Metamorphosis And Bifurcation Of Guanxi In Virtual Third Spaces: The Role Of BBS In Changing Social Relationships In China

Abstract

This research is a the second installation of a planned series of articles exploring the dynamic interaction between the forces of modernization as represented by technology, specifically virtual forms of communication, and traditional culture in China. The focus of the research of this article is the phenomenon of the ubiquity and popularity of BBS (electronic bulletin board systems) in China, long considered “old school” and eclipsed by newer forms of virtual interaction in the West.  The research explores the possibility that BBS’s are developing into virtual third space in which we find traditional social constructs in China being challenged and modified in important ways. Specifically the research underlying this paper proposes to explore that hypothesis that an analysis of the interaction, operations and structure within these social spaces (BBS) might lead one to consider whether or not Guanxi, the relational glue which adheres Chinese society together, as well as other related cultural values and behaviors, are not being updated and modified in critical ways within these virtual third spaces.  Additionally, the research proposes that Guanxi may be bifurcating within the virtual societies of the BBS, where the shared collective experiences of “social networking”  of Guanxi has split from the “utilitarian reciprocal obligation” of “houmen” or guanxi practice.  The results of the research tentatively confirm this proposition and identifies how the unique structure of BBSs and rules of interaction create a new virtual third space, or public sphere, which, while maintaining some aspects of traditional Confucian social order and Guanxi, are leading to their metamorphosis within these virtual communities.