The eastern/asian culture has different values from the west. We know that, but we, in the west, can't understand and integrate that information into the way we respond.
It is easier to see the picture if you take into account that last 100+ years. It would be a lot of history to study. In my case, my parents lived through WWII and my grandfather fought in both wars, I and II. Then there is the Korean war and the Cuban missle crisis. You have a different perspective if you lived through that. Hiding on the hall floor in kindergarten with your head between your legs gives you a different feeling.
it also helps if one studies Russian history and the history of China. This requires some serious research. But for those who are struggling to understand, starting on that road might help you out.
World history provides an even broader perspective. So many countries have set out to establish empires around the world.
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The river is the melody
And sky is the refrain - Gordon Lightfoot