Decolonization, nationalism, and local identity: Rethinking cosmopolitanism in educational practice in Hong Kong

Decolonization, nationalism, and local identity: Rethinking cosmopolitanism in educational practice in Hong Kong

• Lin, Cong The University of Hong Kong
• Jackson, Liz The University of Hong Kong

Asia Pacific Journal of Education, 40(1), 87-97, 2020

Routledge

2020

• P Social Context of Education
  • PC Society & Education
• P Social Context of Education
  • PE Law & Education ; Politics & Education

Cosmopolitanism Decolonization Nationalism Local Identity

• Hong Kong

• 1997.7 onwards

• Unknown or Unspecified

Cosmopolitanism and its application for education in western societies has been well examined. Yet cosmopolitanism in society and in education has not been systematically explored in many Asian societies. Facing a large number of people from diverse backgrounds, the society and its education system in Hong Kong are troubled by issues similar to those found in western postindustrial societies, related to cultural and national belonging and identity. Prejudice and racism towards ethnic minorities – particularly those from South Asia and Africa, is quite common. Additionally, animosity and hostility to mainland Chinese newcomers has increased and intensified in the context of Hong Kong’s “repoliticization” after its 1997 handover. This article aims to explore how cosmopolitanism is understood, valued, and approached in Hong Kong education. We start by exploring the role of decolonization and nationalization in political education in Hong Kong. We then discuss cosmopolitanism, and consider how it impacts particular social and educational issues in Hong Kong. We also provide an analysis of discourses on cosmopolitanism taken from Hong Kong General Studies and History textbooks, to identify challenges faced in facilitating cosmopolitan values, a balance of identities, and global citizenship in Hong Kong education. Copyright © 2020 National Institute of Education, Singapore.

• English

Journal Articles

• 02188791

• 10.1080/02188791.2020.1725431

https://bibliography.lib.eduhk.hk/en/bibs/27602c12

2020-12-10