While it's true that China's relationship with the outside world during the Tang and Song dynasties (considered the Golden Age) was characterized by periods of limited interaction and selective engagement, they were far from completely isolated.
Here's a nuanced look:
Reasons for Limited Interaction:
* Confucian ideology: Confucianism emphasized self-sufficiency and viewed foreign contact with suspicion.
* Fear of foreign invasion: China had experienced previous invasions and sought to minimize vulnerability.
* Administrative concerns: Managing a vast and complex empire required focusing internal resources.
Examples of Selective Engagement:
* Trade with neighboring countries: China engaged in trade with countries like Korea, Japan, and Vietnam, bringing in goods like spices and textiles.
* Diplomatic relations: The Tang and Song dynasties maintained diplomatic ties with other countries, often sending envoys and receiving ambassadors.
* Cultural exchange: Chinese culture and ideas were disseminated through trade, travel, and the spread of Buddhism.
The Reality:
* China's Golden Age saw a flourishing of trade and diplomacy, albeit with limitations.
* The "Middle Kingdom" mindset emphasized China's central role in the world, but didn't necessarily equate to complete isolation.
Therefore, it's important to avoid oversimplification and acknowledge that the Chinese relationship with the outside world during the Golden Age was more complex than simple isolationism. It involved selective engagement and a conscious effort to manage foreign interaction while maintaining internal stability and pursuing economic prosperity.