Experts and scholars at home and abroad discuss the cultural inheritance of Zhu Xi in Sanming, Fujian Province

On October 16, during the third Kaoting Forum in Youxi, Sanming, Professor Chen Lai, director of the Institute of Traditional Chinese Studies at Tsinghua University, emphasized the vital importance of promoting and preserving Zhu Xi’s culture as a representation of Chinese civilization. He noted that Zhu Xi’s influence extends beyond theoretical realms and holds significant practical applications, particularly in the realm of moral education, which has profoundly impacted Chinese child education for nearly a thousand years.

The forum attracted numerous experts and scholars from various countries, including the United States, South Korea, and Turkey, as well as Taiwan and Hong Kong, who convened to discuss the theme “Promoting the Contemporary Value of Zhu Xi’s Culture and Shouldering New Cultural Missions in the New Era.”

Zhu Chongshi, former president of Xiamen University and president of the Zhu Xi Society, highlighted Zhu Xi as a towering figure in Confucian culture whose teachings have far-reaching implications for Chinese culture. He stressed the importance of effectively showcasing and fostering a deep understanding of Zhu Xi’s culture on a global scale, as it plays a crucial role in enhancing international recognition and understanding of China.

Former professor at the University of Paris South, Dai He Bai, shared his journey in exploring Zhu Xi’s culture. He noted the dominance of European philosophical studies, with few scholars deeply versed in Eastern philosophies. Initially driven by personal interest, Dai found that existing French literature on Zhu Xi was inadequate for his research needs, prompting him to embark on translating traditional Chinese historical and cultural texts over the past 20 years. His mission aims to introduce and promote Chinese traditional philosophical culture, particularly Zhu Xi’s teachings, to French-speaking countries.

Zhu Xi’s culture also serves an irreplaceable role in facilitating cross-strait integration and fostering community connections. Since 2018, the Fujian Provincial CPPCC, in collaboration with various institutions from Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan, has organized the “Following Zhu Xi’s Footsteps” study camp, attracting nearly a thousand young students from these regions to explore the rich vein of traditional Chinese culture along Zhu Xi’s legacy.

Located in Youxi, Sanming, which is considered Zhu Xi’s birthplace, the forum featured several events, including the signing of cooperation agreements for cultural exchange, a concert featuring the ancient Qin instrument, a poetry festival, a calligraphy exhibition, and on-site cultural investigations, all celebrating the profound heritage and unique cultural remnants of Zhu Xi’s philosophy.