ECNU launches center for global communication of Laozi's thought

East China Normal University (ECNU) unveiled the Center for Research on Global Communication of Laozi's Thought at its campus in Putuo district, Shanghai, on Sunday, marking a key initiative in advancing the global dissemination of Laozi's philosophy as a cornerstone of Chinese traditional culture.

Renowned for its profound insights into cosmic origins, natural laws, and human governance, Laozi's philosophy transcends temporal, geographical and cultural boundaries, as highlighted by ECNU President Qian Xuhong, a member of the Chinese Academy of Engineering. 

In his address, Qian praised Laozi's teachings as invaluable for addressing contemporary global challenges and navigating the complexities of the modern world.

"The center will unite scholars worldwide to explore Laozi's modern relevance and contribute to the discourse on building a shared human future," Qian said.

As humanity grapples with polarization and ecological crises, the newly established center aims to leverage Laozi's universal wisdom to promote harmony between humanity and nature, foster mutual development among nations, and cultivate spiritual balance in modern life. 

Qin added that Professor Wu Zhiyong, the center's director, has led a six-year foundational research that meticulously traced the evolution of Laozi's ideas in global media, laying the groundwork for the center's ambitious mission.

Wu said the center's dual focus is on tracing Laozi's domestic transmission across China's diverse ethnic cultures and pioneering innovative approaches to international dissemination through interdisciplinary collaboration.

With a strategic emphasis on theoretical integration, disciplinary innovation, technological empowerment, and case studies, the center pledges to uphold academic rigor while fostering open, interdisciplinary collaboration to position Laozi's thought as a timeless resource for global ethics and sustainable development, Wu added.

Following the center's inauguration, the Laozi's Thought Communication Forum has brought together over 30 experts from various fields to explore the multifaceted dimensions of Laozi's profound teachings. 

Symbolic gestures during the event included a donation of a Laozi statue by the Hangu Pass Cultural Heritage Center and contributions of books from academic partners.

Hangu Pass, historically significant as a pivotal mountain gateway in ancient China located in modern-day Henan province, is revered as the birthplace of Taoism, where the sage Laozi composed the seminal Tao Te Ching. This foundational work laid the groundwork for Taoism, China's indigenous spiritual and philosophical tradition, which has profoundly influenced East Asian thought, art, governance and ecology.