Modern Literature Series -- from the School of Xiangbinlou

Author: Feng Guifen
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2002-01-01
Features:
Introduction: The author is a student of the renowned modern thinker Lin Zexu and, under his teacher's influence, possesses a strong sense of pragmatic governance. This book contains 40 essays covering various aspects such as politics, economy, society, culture, and military, making it a prominent advocate for reform at the time. The author firmly believes that cultural values should not be determined by their origin or creators. He proposes, "If a law is unsound, even ancient sages would condemn it; if a law is sound, even barbarians can teach us." This reflects a healthy cultural mindset—confident and open to absorbing foreign cultures amid the influx of Western influences. The reformist ideas and cultural resources upon which these reforms are based hold unique value in the history of modern Chinese thought. During the Guangxu Reforms, Emperor Guangxu had this book printed and distributed to officials, asking which measures should be implemented and which should not, demonstrating its significance.