On Beauty Letters

Author: Zhu Guangqian
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-01-01
Features: In Letters on Aesthetics, Mr. Zhu shared many principles of scholarship and personal conduct through his own experiences. Regarding how to engage in academic work, he advised: "We are engaged in scientific work, which is a demanding and rigorous endeavor that must be grounded in facts and free from any pretense. It requires a clear mind and unwavering perseverance, as well as the courage to overcome all obstacles and distractions. Are we to pass our lives in half-hearted and opportunistic ways, or are we to make a firm resolution to contribute something meaningful to human culture? Anyone who aspires to study any science must first rectify their attitude toward life, clarify their direction, and 'be honest people, speak honest words, and do honest things.'"