Traditional culture being revived in Chinese schools

China 24

Traditional culture being revived in Chinese schools

Confucius is regarded as the greatest sage and teacher among Chinese. The social disciplines of the 5th century B.C. philosopher have deeply influenced Chinese culture.

An interest in reviving the study of traditional values has led to a growing number of schools offering Confucius classes. Many are hoping these teachings can be revived.

In our special series, “What Is China?”, reporter Han Bin goes to Taiyuan City in Central China, to see how it’s being done.

A traditional way of teaching is making a comeback. To follow the ways of Confucius, just like the scholars of old virtues like ritual propriety, humanity, and filial respect, are regaining popularity in China.

“Traditional culture can help children gradually establish a set of correct understandings on society, family, friends and themselves through self-awareness. This awareness needs to start from childhood,” Cao Wenjie, Founder of the Shoushan Capital Education said.

Eight-year-old An Yunqiao and his classmates have been studying a certain Qing Dynasty text for two years. It’s the Dizigui, a guide to growing up.

The government is encouraging schools to incorporate traditional culture into the curriculum as a counterbalance to westernization.

The goal is a balanced education.

Sinology consultant Cao Wenjie has been researching how to promote traditional culture for over a decade.

He co-founded the Jinyang School, and introduced classical philosophy to build students’ character. He says the key is to put the rituals and words into practice in everyday life.

Cao Wenjie says happiness doesn’t mean good marks. Rather, it’s linked to how students see the world.

For ordinary Chinese, traditional culture has emphasized Confucianism, which has been the philosophy for over 2000 years. Today, Confucius’s teachings are taught and practiced in many schools, just like this one. This is to utilize the ancient wisdom to deal with modern life.

Cao Wenjie says the soul of Confucianism is to examine oneself rather than only seeking reasons from outside. It’s both a moral guide and a prescription for good governance.

He hopes traditional culture can be like a cup of fresh tea, bringing clarity to young minds.


Michael Puett on how traditional Chinese culture can benefit western culture

For more on traditional Chinese philosophy and how it relates to our modern culture CGTN’s Elaine Reyes spoke with Michael Puett, a Professor of Chinese History at Harvard University.