Hierarchy (Dengji): A pyramid of interconnected relationships

Abstract

Hierarchy is a relational matrix of status ranking. The collectivist Chinese culture that cultivates the interdependent sense of self constructs a social order based on hierarchy. The respect for hierarchy dates back to Confucianism, which defines five cardinal relationships between ruler and ruled, husband and wife, parents and children, older and younger brothers, and friends. Adherence to these hierarchical relationships is expected to yield social harmony and maintain stability. In social systems like organizations, hierarchies are constituted by networks of graded relationships that both pattern and are patterned by communication systems. Each position in the networks serves to empower or constrain the how, what, when, where and with whom an organization member can and will communicate. This paper explores the cultural roots of hierarchy, its maintenance in Chinese organizations, and its implications for communication.