Understanding Interpersonal Trust in a Confucian-Influenced Society: An Exploratory Study

• Main Authors: TAN, Hwee Hoon, CHEE, Dave
• Format: text
• Language: English
• Published: Institutional Knowledge at Singapore Management University 2005
• Subjects: Affective trust; Cognitive trust; Confucian values; Interpersonal trust; Trust foci; Asian Studies; Business; Organizational Behavior and Theory
• Online Access: https://ink.library.smu.edu.sg/lkcsb_research/2669; https://ink.library.smu.edu.sg/context/lkcsb_research/article/3668/viewcontent/Interpersonal_Trust_Confucian_av.pdf
• Institution: Singapore Management University

Adopting a qualitative methodology, this exploratory study examined the construct of trust and its factors of trustworthiness as perceived in a Confucian-influenced society. The findings of our study indicated that there are emic differences in the meaning of trust as perceived in a Confucian-influenced setting. Specifically, we found a heavy reliance on affective factors of trustworthiness in the decision to trust. In addition, we found a number of factors unique to the context that facilitates the development of trust: diligence, perseverance, filial piety, thriftiness, respect for authority, a shared value of collective effort, harmonious relationship in the office, humbleness and magnanimous behavior. Implications are drawn and future research directions suggested.