Chinese decision-makers approach risk with caution and foresight. Caution involves careful observation, avoiding impulsive actions that disrupt harmony, and managing uncertainty. Foresight is about sensing the near future through deep engagement with present realities to respond flexibly rather than predicting distant events.
Their history of prolonged political instability, social upheaval (like the Cultural Revolution and Civil Wars), and collective responsibility has created a cultural mindset prioritizing stability above all else. Risk is viewed as a threat to this stability and social harmony rather than a challenge or opportunity.
The focus is on minimizing losses and disruptions, favoring gradual, well-considered actions supported by group consensus and government oversight. This leads to high uncertainty avoidance, with decision-makers favoring stability, incremental progress, and preservation of collective well-being over bold risk-taking.