Culture with Ethnic Groups’ Consciousness of Nation - State in the Vietnam - China Border Region

Abstract

The consciousness of nation - state has a deep relationship with national culture and some elements of ethnic culture. Research on four ethnic groups - the Hmong, Tay, Nung, and Lo Lo, in the Vietnam - China border area in Ha Giang province - shows that national culture, especially symbols nationalculture and cultural institutions at the local level, affects people and makes them aware of their belonging to the nation of Vietnam, and ensures them the conditions and environment for cultural activities and practices of a new cultural lifestyle which is united nationwide. The preservation and promotion of ethnic values in association with national culture make people proud of their culture and reduce the feeling of losing their culture. In addition, culture is also a resource for socioeconomic development and national defence.