Subjects: Psychology >> Social Psychology submitted time 2024-04-05
Abstract： Awe, a pervasive and essential positive emotion, has primarily been explored through the lens of Western cultural archetypes, focusing significantly on the profound effects of natural awe inspired by landscapes. However, as scholarly attention begins to shift towards awe’s social underpinnings, the discourse has been largely limited to the remarkable exploits of eminent personalities. This research takes a novel turn, delving into the ordinary social experiences of the wider population. It taps into the rich tapestry of awe as portrayed in Chinese traditional culture, introducing the concept of Yugong spirit awe. This form of awe diverges from the conventional, embracing a distinctly social dimension over the natural, championing a human-centric approach over a divine focus, prioritizing spiritual significance above sheer power, and advocating inclusivity rather than elitist exclusivity. Yugong spirit awe is thus conceptualized as a distinctive awe experience elicited by observing individuals’ steadfast resolve and persistent efforts to alter challenging natural landscapes. This unique perspective redefines the essence of awe within the context of persevering human spirit and collective resilience, drawing from the deep wells of cultural heritage and communal ethos.The present research encompassed four studies, consisting of six sub-studies: a pilot study, four experimental studies, and one field study. These studies first investigated whether yugong spirit awe is a sibling (related but distinct) construct with natural awe. Additionally, these studies examined the effects of yugong spirit awe in increasing willingness of high-income individuals to donate. In the pilot study, participants were provided with materials describing four contemporary events that exemplify the yugong spirit in Chinese society. These events included the construction of Minning Town, the Hongqi Canal, the Huoshenshan and Leishenshan Hospitals, and the Guoliang Hanging Wall Highroad. The results revealed that all four events were perceived as awe-inspiring. Subsequently, in studies 1a and 1b, conducted respectively using within-subject and between-subject experimental designs, the results affirmed that the sense of awe evoked by yugong spirit events (such as the construction of the Guoliang Hanging Wall Highroad) stemmed from the unwavering determination and relentless spirit exhibited by humans, as opposed to the influence of natural landscapes. Moving forward to Study 2, which employed a between-subject experiment, the results suggested that yugong spirit awe was more effective in reducing negative stereotypes about impoverished groups compared to natural awe. Study 3a, conducted as a laboratory experiment, demonstrated that yugong spirit awe could enhance the donation willingness of individuals who subjectively considered themselves to be high-income earners. Finally, in Study 3b, a field experiment supported the impact of yugong spirit awe on the donation willingness and actual donation of real high-income individuals. In sum, the present research reveals that yugong spirit awe is prevalent in contemporary Chinese society (pilot study) and represents a unique form of awe compared to natural awe (studies 1a, 1b, and 2). Yugong spirit awe shows unique effect in countering negative stereotypes about disadvantaged groups (studies 2, 3a, and 3b) and in enhancing the donation willingness of high-income individuals (studies 3a and 3b). This study not only enriches our understanding of awe rooted in Chinese cultural perspective but also provides fresh insights into fostering societal well-being and advancement.
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Awaiting Review
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