Social Structure
China has a very formal and hierarchical social structure that extends to business, institutional and family life. For example, children are expected to respect their elders with the oldest family member commanding the greatest respect. In America, there is greater fluidity between groups with workers, managers, children and adults often making joint decisions and enjoying social occasions together.
Collectivism vs. Individualism
In China, people think about ideas in a collective sense, often considering how their actions will affect their friends, neighbors and colleagues before making a decision. Decisions are more commonly made for the greater good as opposed to personal gain. In America, prioritizing individual goals and motives over collective ones is considered the norm. This ethos is often actively encouraged to stimulate ambition and a drive to achieve business and personal success.