Chinese and western notions of need

Abstract

In this article, we compare Chinese and western notions of need, by look ing at the theoretical underpinnings of need in western and Chinese moral thought. We do so, first, by outlining a theory of need developed by Doyal and Gough (1984, 1991), second, by examining the notion of autonomy, third, by considering social obligations, and, fourth, by look ing at the social construction of need. We conclude by arguing for a con sideration of a theory of need based upon Confucian principles of con nectedness.