To avoid the Anglo-Saxon culture mode, which dominates the current study of human communication in all contexts, the concept of communication competence can be examined from the perspective of Chinese culture. The conceptualization and empirical indicators used for the measurement of communication competence strongly reflect a Western cultural bias which shows a linear and mechanical obsession with cause and effect. Three ontological assumptions guide Chinese communication behaviors: human communication is always in a state of change and transformation; the transforming process of the universe revolves in an endless cycle; and this process has no ending. Confucianism is generally identified as the foundation of Chinese culture and tradition. To develop a harmoniously interdependent relationship in the communication process is the cardinal aim of Chinese culture. Five cardinal concepts form the foundation of a contingency model of communication competence: "Bian" (change), "Shih" (time), "Wei" (environment), "Ji" (the trace of movements), and "Chung Tao" (the way of means or appropriateness). "Cheng" represents the internal consistency of individuals by holding a sincere and honest mind to themselves and others. Confucian teachings further equip individuals with three keys for entering the state of "Tai": "Jen" (love), "Yi" (righteousness), and "Li" (respect for social norms). Human communication is a cyclic process in which the person, instead of message or other elements, is the focus. (Contains 42 references and a figure illustrating a Chinese model of communication competence.) (RS)