Fang Xudong: Civilizations flourish through exchanges, mutual learning
China DailyEditor's Note: The 10th Nishan Forum on World Civilizations, which is being held in Qufu, Shandong province, the hometown of Confucius, from July 10 to 11, aims to promote traditional Chinese culture and strengthen international cultural exchanges and cooperation. Later, the Song and Ming Neo-Confucian scholars merged it with Yan Hui's concept of happiness, coining it "The Joy of Confucius and Yan Hui". Recalling the teachings of Confucius and Yan Hui on simple pleasures, "Eating humble food and drinking water, resting on bent arms, happiness lies within", may inspire a conscious detachment from material possessions and a reclamation of spiritual freedom. Today, Confucian culture must actively "go global" while also opening its doors to diverse cultures and civilizations and embracing their contributions.