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Theory of self-cultivation based on Confucianism: a supplement to social exchange theory

Jinyun Duan (East China Normal University, Shanghai, China)
Dilin Yao (Shanghai Maritime University, Shanghai, China)
Yue Xu (IBSS, Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, China)
Linhan Yu (Soochow University, Suzhou, China)

Chinese Management Studies

ISSN: 1750-614X

Article publication date: 11 February 2021

Issue publication date: 17 January 2022

677

Abstract

Purpose

Although domestic research on Chinese management is emerging, a suitable domestic theory is still needed to support and explain Chinese management practice. Given that, this paper aims to extract ideas of cultivation from Confucianism and propose a theoretical framework of self-cultivation with a purpose to provide new explanations for domestic (nondomestic as well) management practice.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing from pre-Qin cultivation discourse and management practice, this paper develops a theoretical framework of self-cultivation and discusses its implications.

Findings

This paper argues that self-cultivation emphasizes self-consciousness, initiative and selflessness. It also includes self-reflection, self-discipline, self-study and self-improvement, as well as self-dedication, all of which reflect the ideal realm of “self-cultivation.” This “realm” refers to the process of pursuing an ideal personality and high moral standards.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the literature by identifying various potential applications of self-cultivation theory to domestic research on organizational behavior in China.

Keywords

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities (No. 2019ECNU-HWFW020) and National Science Foundation of China (no.72072058) for the support.

Citation

Duan, J., Yao, D., Xu, Y. and Yu, L. (2022), "Theory of self-cultivation based on Confucianism: a supplement to social exchange theory", Chinese Management Studies, Vol. 16 No. 1, pp. 62-77. https://doi.org/10.1108/CMS-02-2020-0050

Publisher

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Emerald Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2021, Emerald Publishing Limited

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