Research On Panda Symbols And The Construction Of China’s National Image

In today’s national system,the construction of a country’s image is related to its international status and reputation.Since the reform and opening up,China’s economy has developed rapidly and its national strength has continuously strengthened.However,misunderstandings about China by the international community have increased day by day,and erroneous statements such as the "China Threat Theory" and the "Yellow Disaster Theory" have become rampant.A good national image affects China’s internal affairs,diplomacy,and international status.Therefore,building China’s national image has become an important part of China’s rise.Panda,as a kind of cultural symbol,has become one of China’s business cards,and has made outstanding contributions to the construction of China’s national image.This article takes the panda symbol as the starting point,utilizes Saussure’s semiotics theory,utilizes literature analysis and classic case analysis to systematically comb the meaning and evolution of the panda symbol,and introduces a comprehensive four-dimensional model of the national image to provide suggestions for using the panda symbol to construct China’s national image.The author adopts synchronic and diachronic research methods in semiotics.In the study of synchronicity,we analyzed what kind of panda symbol signifiers and signifiers China has created in different fields,including film and television dramas,diplomacy,mascots,and so on.In a diachronic study,we explored the communication media of panda symbols,the form of panda diplomacy,and the changes in the meaning of panda symbols.The author finds that using panda symbols to construct a national image has certain advantages,and the uniqueness,affinity,and high recognition of panda symbols can eliminate the impact of different cultures and regions as much as possible.The author believes that in the process of constructing a national image using panda symbols,a comprehensive four-dimensional model of the national image can be used to create a three-dimensional,multidimensional,and positive national image of China.From a functional perspective,it is necessary to demonstrate national strength and build a communication matrix;From a normative perspective,it is necessary to assume the responsibility of a major country and increase panda protection efforts;In terms of aesthetic dimension,it is necessary to inject cultural connotation and tell Chinese stories well;From the perspective of empathy,it is necessary to reconstruct cultural symbols and bridge cultural gap.