Confucianism

The teachings of Confucius influence the Vietnamese describe the position of the individual in Vietnamese society.
Confucianism is a system of behaviours and ethics that stress the obligations of people towards one another based upon their relationship.

The basic tenets are based upon five different relationships:

. Ruler and subject

. Husband and wife

. Parents and children

. Brothers and sisters

. Friend and friend

Confucianism stresses duty, loyalty, honour, filial piety, respect for age and seniority, and sincerity.

The Family

Vietnamese life revolves around the family.

The Vietnamese family consists of the nuclear as well as the extended family.

It is not uncommon for three generations to be living together under one roof.

In Confucian tradition, the father is the head of the family and it is his responsibility to provide food, clothing and shelter and make important decisions.

Within the same tradition it is believed that after someone dies their spirit lives on.

Descendents will “worship” their ancestors to ensure their good favour.

On the anniversary of a person’s death, ceremonies are held in their memory.

They are also remembered during certain lunar festivals and souls are consulted prior to important decisions or occasions such as a birth or a wedding.

Face

As with many other Asian nations, the concept of face is extremely important to the Vietnamese.

Face is a tricky concept to explain but can be roughly described a quality that reflects a person’s reputation, dignity, and prestige.

It is possible to lose face, save face or give face to another person.

Companies as well as individuals can have face or lose face.

For foreigners it is important to be aware that you may unintentionally cause a loss of face so it is important to be aware of your words and actions.

Understanding how face is lost, saved or given is critical.

Someone can be given face by complimenting them for their hospitality or business acumen.

Accusing someone of poor performance or reprimanding them publicly will lead to a loss of face.

Collectivism

In general, the Vietnamese are a collectivists.

The individual is seen as secondary to the group – whether the family, school or company.

As a result there are strict guidelines for social interaction that are designed to protect a group’s face

Hierarchy

As with most group-orientated societies there are also hierarchical structures.

In Vietnam these are very much based upon age and status.

This derives from Confucianism, which emphasizes social order.

Everyone is seen as having a distinct place and role within the hierarchical structure, be it the family or workplace.

An obvious example is seen in social situations where the oldest person in a group is greeted or served first.

Within the family the head would be responsible for making decisions and approving marriages.