中國人喜歡在一起，這個傳統(tǒng)可以追溯到很久之前。這反映出中國人喜歡團圓、不愿分離的觀念---圓桌、圓盤、圓碗都象征著團圓和美滿。盤子通常放在桌子的中央，這樣坐在桌子面前的所用人都可以吃到。一鍋熱湯尤其可以增加和諧、團圓的氣氛。朋友們也喜歡在一起吃飯、生活。最近一位美國漢學家(Sinologist) 的著作認為，中國人的集體觀念 就是從一同吃飯發(fā)展而來的。

　　Chinese like to eat together, which is a tradition that can be traced back a long time ago. It reflects the Chinese notion of union versus division—round tables, round dishes, and round bowls all symbolize union and perfection. Dishes are usually placed at the center of the table, so that everyone around the table can share them. A hot pot, in particular, adds to the atmosphere of harmony and union. Friends also like to eat and live together. A recent book by an American Sinologist held that the Chinese collective tradition developed out of the practice of eating together.