On October 19, 2024, during an exclusive interview with China News Service, Yang Huilin, former vice president of Renmin University of China and a distinguished professor, shared insights on the theme of “China in the World” at the second Tongzhou Global Development Forum in Beijing. The forum, held from October 18 to 20, focused on building a development community for a new era of humanity.
When asked about the significance of cross-cultural dialogue, Yang emphasized the concept of “mutual learning” in understanding diverse civilizations. He pointed out that the Chinese term for mutual learning, “互鉴” (hùjiàn), involves a deeper reflection that resonates with the various meanings encapsulated in the English word “reflection.” He noted that this interplay of ideas across languages reveals foundational similarities among different cultures.
“The key to achieving this mutual learning lies in comparison,” Yang explained. He referred to classical Chinese texts that emphasize the inherent structure of juxtaposition in Chinese thought, illustrating that differences can be seen as complementary rather than divisive. He cited the concept of ‘yin and yang’ from the “I Ching” and the idea that opposites can coexist harmoniously, reflecting a distinct aspect of Chinese philosophy.
Yang also highlighted the importance of dialogue and interaction between Eastern and Western cultures, suggesting that true understanding emerges from deep communication and appreciation of one another’s values. He mentioned poet Victor Segalen as an example of how Western intellectuals have been influenced by Chinese culture, fostering a mutual exchange of ideas.
In addressing the challenges of navigating contemporary global dynamics, Yang referenced historical perspectives by Fernand Braudel and Liang Qichao, suggesting that understanding the “World of China” provides a crucial framework for overcoming the ancient and modern disputes between East and West. He advocated for an approach grounded in dialogue, which he argued is essential for both acknowledging differences and discovering commonalities.
The conversation underscored the necessity of fostering cultural confidence through open dialogue—recognizing that understanding ourselves also hinges upon understanding others. Yang concluded by emphasizing that the goal of these interactions is not just mutual understanding but also enriching our own cultural narratives through the lens of others, thus creating a more balanced global discourse.
