China Through the Looking Glass : Exploring the Swedish China Image Through Framing

Abstract: Building on the assumption that the image of China within the Swedish state is pluralist, the aim of this study is to explore this plurality through the lens of Pan Chengxin’s paradigms “China threat” and “China opportunity”. A second aim is to contribute to the theory by applying it in a different context compared to where it originated. This is explored through the method of frame analysis and interpretive text analysis. The study shows that the image is indeed pluralist and differs between entities. Frames that are commonly used by one entity are non-existent in texts by another. There are also differences in emphasis within frames and within entities. Understanding how China is framed and imagined in different parts of the Swedish state can be useful in itself as it helps us understand that the relationship between Sweden and China is complex and dynamic. Furthermore, the study shows that while Pan’s paradigms can be a useful outset point, one cannot understand the Swedish image of China without also looking beyond them. The Swedish China image holds nuances unaccounted for by the theory, particularly in the perception of China as heterogenous to a higher extent than anticipated.