The Research On The Position And Function Of The Confucian Culture In The Fertility Rate Transition

Since the early 1990s, the fertility in China had reduced to below replacement level. Some scholars have recognized if the current policy is not adjusted in time, China will step into the "low fertility trap", following the footsteps of Europe. But voices of opposition are still very loud. Policy-makers are in the state of indecision. One of the most resounding reasons is that the government fears the emergence of fertility rebound will ruin the results of three decades of family planning when the fertility policy is adjusted. This concern is mainly based on Confucianism in China for thousands of years resulting in universal concern for the family and more children in tradition. However, South Korea, Japan and Vietnam in a Confucian cultural background have also been influenced by Confucian culture, and almost do not implement such a tough policy as the family planning in China. It is surprising that the fertility in these countries also have reduced to below replacement level.Based on fertility data and literature material of countries, the article induced and concluded the fertility rate transition type and fertility policy of the main countries in the Confucian cultural circle. With demographic transition theory, diffusion theory and cultural delay theory, the article probed into the influence of Confucian Culture on the fertility rate transition. The results of the study show that the effect of Confucian culture on fertility rate transition has weakened under the impact of modernization and globalization. The family planning department of China exaggerated the effect of the Confucian culture. In a certain extent, the family planning policy accelerates the fertility rate transition, but role of policy has limited. Population has its regularity of development. China should adjust the fertility policy according to the present situation of population and allow one couple to give birth to two children.