中国人喜欢在一起，这个传统可以追溯到很久之前。这反映出中国人喜欢团圆、不愿分离的观念---圆桌、圆盘、圆碗都象征着团圆和美满。盘子通常放在桌子的中央，这样坐在桌子面前的所用人都可以吃到。一锅热汤尤其可以增加和谐、团圆的气氛。朋友们也喜欢在一起吃饭、生活。最近一位美国汉学家(Sinologist) 的著作认为，中国人的集体观念 就是从一同吃饭发展而来的。

　　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.