Political Personality and Taiwan's China Policy－From Lee Teng-hui to Chen Shui-bian
Resource
政治科學論叢, 14, 107-125
Journal
政治科學論叢
Journal Issue
14
Pages
107-125
Date Issued
2001-06
Date
2001-06
Author(s)
Shih, C.Y.
Abstract
This paper examines the interaction between political personality and Taiwan's China policy. Based upon President Lee Teng-hui's self-revelation in three selected texts, the paper provides an in-depth psychoanalytical analysis of his need as well as the projection of that need onto public objects. The result is a re-interpretation of the meaning of cross-Taiwan Straits relations in terms of how China policy serves as self-therapy. The second half of the paper compares President Lee and current President Chin Shui-bian and shows how the latter, with a different personality, has brought with him a different style of policy making. Basically, Lee displays narcissism and he knows and struggles to control it. He does that by devoting himself to an abstract value. While he is sympathetic with Taiwan independence, he fears it lest pursuit of independence should release his dreaded narcissism. He consciously shuns his disposition for independence. He satisfies his ego by resisting a stronger China and avoids total self-involvement by opposing Taiwan independence. In comparison, Chen possesses authoritarian personality and is constantly in need of a clear guideline from a certain omniscient superior. For him, the United States plays that role.
Subjects
李登輝；陳水扁；兩岸關係；大陸政策；政治人格；Lee Teng-hui；Chen Shui-bian；political personality；China Policy；Taiwan Straits
Type
journal article