As global uncertainty grows, the 2025 Nishan Forum on World Civilizations returns to the foot of Nishan Mountain in east China’s Shandong Province from July 9 to 10. This intercultural dialogue aims to explore how Confucianism can address today’s ethical dilemmas and social fragmentation.
Rediscovering Confucian Wisdom
Rooted in ren (benevolence), li (ritual propriety), yi (righteousness) and zhongyong (the doctrine of the mean), Confucianism stresses moral cultivation, family ties and social responsibility. These age-old principles are gaining new traction as societies seek harmony, justice and ethical leadership.
"Many of today’s societal problems stem from a global moral crisis," says Tan Eng Chaw, president of the Confucian Society in Singapore. "To address this, humanity must build a new framework of universal ethics – and Confucianism offers invaluable moral resources that can help guide this transformation."
Toward a Shared Global Ethics
Experts like Professor Gao Ruiquan of East China Normal University highlight Confucianism’s pragmatic tradition: it evolves with the times, offering fresh paths to governance, inequality and environmental responsibility. "Its revival is not only vital to the renewal of Chinese civilization but also to the vision of a shared human future," he notes.
China is weaving Confucian ideals into global initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative, the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative. These frameworks prioritize dialogue over confrontation, cooperation over division and ethics over dominance.
As participants exchange ideas across cultures, Confucianism emerges not just as heritage but as a global asset – a moral compass for a more just, harmonious and sustainable world order.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
