Globalization vs. Asian Values Some government officials in East Asian nations have boldly proclaimed an alternative to the Western cultural model by declaring an adherence to traditional "Asian values.
Asian values are typically described as embodying the Confucian ideals of respect for authority, hard work, thrift, and the belief that the community is more important than the individual. This is said to be coupled with a preference for economic, social, and cultural rights rather than political rights. The most frequent criticism of these valuesis that they run contrary to the universality of human rights and tend to condone undemocratic undercurrents in some countries,including thesuppression of dissidents, and the excessive use of national security laws.
Some commentators have credited Asian values as contributing to the stunning economic rise of several countries in East Asia. It is also suggested that Asians have been able to protect and nurture their traditions in the face of utilitarian modernity, lax morals, and globalization.