In order for each generation to advance, it must draw upon the achievements of the one that preceded it. So, to develop and foster culture, above all, we should recognize tradition.

 

Though China has few exemplary philosophical theories, Chinese people have never stopped philosophical innovation. From Confucianism and Taoism to their integration with Buddhism, and from metaphysics to Neo-Confucianism, Chinese people have unceasingly scaled the heights of philosophy.

 

The theoretical system created by thinkers like founder of Taoism Lao Tzu, Confucius and Neo-Confucian thinker Zhu Xi constitutes a unique form of philosophy.

 

Starting with Confucius’ revision of the Spring and Autumn Annals, it became a tradition for each dynasty to record the history of its predecessor. All historical records are rich in content. With a meticulously designed layout and intriguing narration, they unfold a picture of struggle for survival and aspirations for development.

 

This tradition shows the awareness Chinese people have of the need to review the changes that have occurred from ancient times to the present day and to draw lessons from history. And it has been through this practice that Chinese culture continues to flourish with dynamism.

 

The literary and artistic creation inspired by poetry offers a window into the psyche of the Chinese people. In literature, painting, sculpture, drama and music, the pursuit of life and soul constitutes an eternal theme.

 

Traditional art forms embody reason, harmony, happiness and sublimation to achieve the goal of manifesting great beauty and to depict something that is detached from mortal life while offering a hint of worldly concerns. Their nature is powerful but also contains a trace of tranquility. Without the imagination generated during creation, it’s hard to envision what Chinese people would look like.

 

Philosophical speculation, historical narration as well as cultural and artistic creation focus on the spiritual life while institutional progress and technological innovation have provided a system and material support for the development of Chinese culture.

 

Confucius insisted on reversing the collapse of ritual beliefs in the Spring and Autumn Period (B.C. 770-B.C. 476) by restoring the political and economic systems recorded in the Rites of Zhou. Though he failed, the rites and etiquette he championed ultimately became the basis for institutional development. It was under such national institutions that traditional society stood firm for peaceful governance in accordance with the principle of benevolence.

 

At the same time, the proposition of peace also stresses that different ethnic groups live in harmony with the aim of co-existence and shared prosperity. The tradition of pursuing harmony at home and peace abroad has played a significant role in breaking down barriers among different ethnic groups and nations, promoting peaceful development around the world and realizing eternal peace for all mankind.

 

The Chinese people have had a strong interest in invention and innovation since ancient times. As early as the Spring and Autumn Period and the Warring States Period (B.C. 475-B.C. 221), science and technology had already become relatively advanced. For instance, logic in the Mohist Canon and medical science in the Inner Canon of Yellow Emperor each developed into theoretical systems of their own. And other fields, like astronomy, geography, traditional Chinese medicine, architecture and handicrafts, have developed with distinctive features, driving cultural progress.

 

Though China has been greatly affected by Western industrialization in modern times, it can keep pace with scientific and technological advancement around the globe if it remains determined to reform and change with the times.

 

Chinese traditional culture also pays attention to the maintenance of ethics. Whether one is speaking of the good manners and integrity championed by Confucianism, the unity between heaven and man proposed by Taoism or full enlightenment pursued by Buddhism, all are based on the proposition that people should uphold the moral imperative to do good.

 

Many maintain that Chinese people have no faith and thus revere nothing. It is untrue, however. In fact, beliefs in nature, divinity, ancestor worship and even the philosophies of ancient times, like Confucianism, constitute a kind of faith with reason.

 

Sacrifices to and worship of everything in the universe represent not only a mirror of social practice in real life but reflect the requirement of cultural life for families and individuals. In traditional society, various religions are well integrated, and all ethnic groups have their own beliefs. Such reasonable and inclusive beliefs provide guidance for thoughts and actions and moreover, enrich the spiritual health of Chinese people.

 

Chinese culture is of great value to psychology, literature and science as well as political systems. The traditions it has been built upon hold the promise of infinite vitality. And confidence in culture means to inherit and carry forward all these traditions. In this way, China can keep developing its culture and making a greater contribution to the world.

 

Dai Zhaoguo is from the Department of Philosophy of the School of Political Scienceat Anhui Normal University.

The Chinese version appeared in Chinese Social Sciences Today, No. 664, November 3, 2014                                                

Translated by RenJingyun

Revised by Justin Ward