Drum Tower

Drum Tower: What does it mean to be Taiwanese?

Oct 24, 2023

Exploring the complexities of Taiwanese identity and the potential threats China poses to Taiwan's freedoms. Discussing the impact of COVID-19 and the ongoing divide in Taiwanese society. Examining the historical context of Taiwan, including Japanese colonial rule and the transition from authoritarianism to democracy. Exploring changes in Taiwanese education and the composition of the Taiwanese people. Examining the loyalty to the KMT political party and the evolution of political perspectives among different generations. Discussing the potential invasion of Taiwan and its economic implications.

46:31

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Quick takeaways

Taiwan's national identity is divided and complex, with older generations leaning towards a Chinese identity while younger generations embrace a distinct Taiwanese identity.

Taiwan's increasing divergence from China is rooted in differences in values and political systems, as the nation prioritizes its own democratic identity and resists authoritarian rule.

Deep dives

Taiwan's Identity Crisis

Taiwan is faced with the controversial question of whether it is Chinese or not. The nation's history, with its transition from authoritarianism to democracy, has fueled a complex and divided society. This division is particularly prominent when it comes to the relationship with China, as opinions vary on whether Taiwan should embrace or resist the mainland. The older generation, influenced by the nationalist education system, tends to lean towards a Chinese identity, while younger generations are more inclined towards embracing a distinct Taiwanese identity. These generational differences reflect the ongoing struggle for Taiwan to solidify its national identity and navigate its future.

Introduction

2min

China's Threat to Taiwan's Freedoms and Divisions in Taiwanese Society

3min

Taiwan's Complex Identity

17min

Launch of Economist Podcast Plus and Paywall Announcement

2min

Education, Genetics, and Political Transition

4min

Native Islander's Loyalty to KMT and Arguments about Political Corruption

2min

Generation Gap and Changing Perspectives

11min

The Potential Invasion of Taiwan and its Economic Implications

4min

Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, many have worried: is Taiwan next? China is giving Taiwan a terrifying choice: unify with China, or face war. People in Taiwan want neither of these.

For this special four-part series, David Rennie, The Economist’s Beijing bureau chief, and Alice Su, our senior China correspondent, ask whether Taiwan can preserve its freedoms and decide its own future.

In this first episode, they explore how Taiwan’s divided and changing identity impacts how close Taiwanese people want to be to China. They meet Chen Yao-chang, a doctor turned novelist, whose idea of what it means to be Taiwanese has changed in recent years.

Sign up for Economist Podcasts+ now and get 50% off your subscription with our limited time offer. If you’re already a subscriber to The Economist, you’ll have full access to all our shows as part of your subscription.

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Drum Tower

Drum Tower: What does it mean to be Taiwanese?

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Deep dives

Taiwan's Identity Crisis

The Changing Perspectives on China

Generational Divides and Political Arguments

Identity Maturation and the Uncertain Future

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts