Counterproductive Work Behavior
7
Confucian philosophies, especially Ren () (benevolence), Yi () (right conduct),
Zhong () (loyalty), and Li () (propriety and good manners) have formed the foundation of
the Chinese traditional culture, and these philosophies represent behavioral standards in Chinese
societies (see reviews by Bond & Hwang, 1992; Sha, 2000). Specifically, the teachings of
Confucian heritage emphasize the importance of controlling for selfish and greedy behaviors and
the importance of spontaneous behaviors that are beyond the explicit role requirements but
essential for the society. More than two thousand years ago, Confucian described an ideal
commonwealth state, in which
"every man and woman has an appropriate role to play in the family and society. A sense
of sharing displaces the effects of selfishness and materialism. A devotion to public duty leaves
no room for idleness. Intrigues and conniving for ill gain are unknown. Villains such as thieves
and robbers do not exist. The doors to every home need never be blocked and bolted by day or
night. These are the characteristics of an ideal work, and commonwealth state" (The Record of
Rites, 2004).
In addition to the influence of the traditional culture, the educational systems in Chinese
schools, organizations, and society at large are characterized by active disseminations of "Hao
Ren Hao Shi" () (good people and good things) and open criticisms of "Huai Ren Huai
Shi" () (bad people and bad things). President Hu Jin Tao recently declared the
importance of developing an "advanced socialist culture" at the Tenth National Meeting of the
Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, China's political advisory body. Specifically,
President Hu highlighted the importance of "eight honors" and "eight shames", and claimed that