Legal and Social Sciences - (Volume 1)

Author: Su Li
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-05-01
Features: We hope to participate in the historical transformation of Chinese academia and more specifically, to promote the historical transformation of legal studies in terms of knowledge types. We will strive to advance empirical and positivist research in law, interdisciplinary studies between law and various social sciences related to labor and social security, as well as research centered on Chinese issues.
The author believes that the humanities in Chinese society are undergoing the most significant transformation since the pre-Qin period. The fundamental driving force behind this transformation is the development of Chinese society, which has led to changes in societal needs, as academia is ultimately influenced by the academic market, particularly societal demands. This shift presents major challenges for Chinese academia. First, it is essential to more vigorously promote the development of social sciences, which is undeniably necessary. Second, humanities must also undergo appropriate adjustments and cannot merely repeat tradition, as traditional literary, philosophical, and Confucian studies were always targeted and often pragmatic, whether in Confucianism, Legalism, military studies, or even in this regard. It must be emphasized that this transformation is possible. However, it is important to note that one must not pander to trends or package traditional humanities research with fashionable terminology; rather, a fundamental transformation is required. Third, it is crucial to focus on empirical research. While certain aspects of traditional humanities can be learned, modern social science research methods, including statistical analysis and game theory, must be given greater attention. One must not always discuss macro-level concepts, propose grand ideas, or introduce new terms without validation. Instead, it is necessary to integrate macro and micro perspectives, theory and practice, or "history" and "argumentation." This will be a long process, causing many of us great pain and a sense of disorientation as we struggle to find our place. But in my view, this is a necessity driven by societal development.