东西问丨苏文菁：闽商千年商道，从海洋基因到全球文明的东方叙事

Core Perspective - The article discusses the evolution of the business culture of Fujian merchants (闽商) and their unique maritime heritage, emphasizing how this history contributes to a modern understanding of globalization and cultural exchange [1]. Group 1: Maritime Heritage - Fujian's maritime activities date back approximately 7,500 years, with early settlers using canoes for exploration and migration, leading to a philosophy of "farming the sea" [2]. - During the Tang Dynasty, Fujian merchants began engaging in overseas trade, with Quanzhou's "Cizhou Port" becoming a major trading hub during the Song and Yuan dynasties, facilitating trade of silk and ceramics [2]. - The expansion of Fujian's commercial network is characterized by cultural exchanges, as seen in the blending of Islamic patterns with Chinese porcelain techniques [2]. Group 2: Cultural Codes - The unique commercial gene of Fujian merchants combines land-based ethical orders with maritime adventurous spirit, differing from Mediterranean commercial civilizations [3]. - The clan system among Fujian merchants promotes systematic business operations and social coordination, integrating loyalty and filial piety into commercial practices [3]. - A practical belief system among Fujian merchants incorporates risk management and wealth pursuit, with deities like Mazu and Guan Yu playing significant roles in their business practices [3]. Group 3: Cultural Integration - Architectural examples like the buildings in Jimei and Xiamen University showcase a blend of overseas and local architectural elements, reflecting a spirit of cultural inclusivity [4]. - The tradition of enhancing business trust through cultural exchanges, such as tea tasting and art sharing, continues to be a hallmark of Fujian merchants [5]. Group 4: Transformation and Globalization - The transformation of Fujian merchants since the reform and opening-up period began with grassroots economic activities and led to significant institutional changes [6]. - The rise of industrial clusters in Jinjiang exemplifies the upgrade of value chains, with companies like Anta Sports evolving from OEM to independent brands [6]. - Overseas Chinese networks have empowered Fujian merchants to establish a global presence, with companies like Gree Technology expanding their manufacturing and R&D capabilities worldwide [6]. Group 5: Insights on Global Collaboration - Fujian merchants emphasize value chain sharing rather than zero-sum expansion, as demonstrated by innovative business models that integrate local architectural elements into modern designs [7]. - Social contract investments by Fujian merchants focus on resource democratization through technology, exemplified by agricultural initiatives in Africa that promote entrepreneurship among local youth and women [7]. - The article concludes that embedding commercial rules within cultural contexts can help navigate the challenges of globalization, contrasting the Western model's pitfalls with the balanced approach of Fujian merchants [7].