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A Chaotic Scene: The Translation and Reception of the Gynaecocentric Theory in China ~ By Tang Xinyu

Abstract: The gynaecocentric theory, put forward by Lester F. Ward (1841–1913) in 1888, was introduced to China via Japan by Li Da (1890–1966) and Xia Mianzun (1886–1946) between 1921 and 1922. In contrast to its being seldom mentioned in the United States during the same period, the theory aroused a heated and prolonged discussion among the Chinese intellectuals. The translators Li Da and Xia Mianzun did not actually agree with Ward’s analysis of the causes of inequalities between men and women, although they faithfully translated his theory. Similarly, the readers, including socialists, feminists and nationalists, criticised or approved the theory according to their own values and stances. Behind all the different opinions, there was something in common: the vast majority of readers adopted a pragmatic position, without paying much attention to the theoretical study of the theory, which not only inevitably caused misreading of Ward and his theory, but created difficulties in recognising the weakness of the theory.