Why do northern Chinese behave differently from those in the south? You're invited to a fascinating talk on China's two psychological cultures by Thomas Talhelm, who found large differences between people in northern and southern China—and that these differences were correlated with the amount of rice historically grown in different provinces. In a recent study, published on the cover of Science, psychologist Talhelm argues that rice farming's staggering labor requirements and irrigation networks encouraged labor exchanges and tight, reciprocal relationships. In contrast, wheat's lower labor and water requirements lead to the north's more independent and free-wheeling culture. For more insights into Talhelm’s fascinating research see the Economist, National Geographic, and NPR. Talhelm will also explain why Beijingers are more likely to push chairs around more when they visit Starbucks.

ABOUT THE SPEAKER: Thomas is a 2012-2013 Fulbright scholar to China and assistant professor of behavioral science at the University of Chicago. He researches cross-cultural differences and north-south cultural differences in China. He has lived in China (both north and south) for four years doing research, as a Princeton in Asia fellow, and as a freelance journalist. He is also founder of Smart Air, which promotes low-cost DIY air filters as an alternative to the high-priced air purifier market.​

The event is co-sponsored by RASBJ