Poison from the dragon's belly: Is China paying too high a price for success?

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting‐edge research and case studies.

Design/methodology/approach

This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context.

Findings

The mythology of the dragon extends back into the mists of ancient Chinese history. Thought to be one of the primal spirits of the world, the dragon, symbolizing both power and wisdom, had a natural affinity with the lakes and rivers of China where it was believed to reside. The Chinese emperors adopted the dragon as the symbol of their imperial power and today the dragon is understood as a common metaphor for China itself: vast and powerful, beautiful and mysterious. However, the image of the dragon as a benevolent, protective spirit may be giving way to a more European interpretation of dragon mythology, which historically viewed the dragon as a marauding supernatural beast, spitting poisonous fire and leaving devastation in its wake. This can be understood when the cost of China's rapid industrialization is weighed up against the price paid by China's air and water quality, and ultimately by the health of China's greatest asset, the Chinese people.

Practical implications

This paper provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world's leading organizations.

Originality/value

The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy‐to‐digest format.

Citation

(2008), "Poison from the dragon's belly: Is China paying too high a price for success?", Strategic Direction, Vol. 24 No. 2, pp. 21-23. https://doi.org/10.1108/02580540810848674