Design Strategies to Address Problems Caused By Alcohol Abuse in Chinese Business Culture

Abstract

With China's reforms, opening up and economic develop- ment since the late 1970s, alcohol use is a common phenomenon in Chinese business circles. However, the problems that are caused by business drinking have been ignored. Chinese traditional toast culture and persuasion habits have been distorted after entering business circles. The problems caused by alcohol abuse, such as drunk driving, domestic violence and even alcoholism, are even worse. The objective of this study is to focus on the issues of business drinking culture in China, and to discuss the necessity of business drinking and the influence of Chinese toasting culture on business dinners. Research in this essay focuses on these practices, as well as the importance of alcohol use in business negotiations, and the impact on society and households due to alcohol abuse in Chinese business communities. Research in this essay also details the harm on the family and the community due to alcohol abuse caused by men who drink passively for business and the necessity of their drinking behavior. The aim of this study is to figure out where design can engage to solve or improve the problem of alcohol abuse in Chinese business circles.