Contemporary China's "Emerging Discipline" -- New Perspectives on Modern Chinese Historical Theory and Thought

Author: Hou Qian'an
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2000-03-01
Features: This book, dedicated to the readers, records the academic development path of my nearly ten years, embodies the crystallization of my academic thoughts, and presents my personal academic history. Careful readers may ask: What is meant by "manifest learning"? I use "manifest learning" as the title of the book for two reasons. On the one hand, the subjects I study and engage with are indeed influential and deeply meaningful examples in the study of modern Chinese history. On the other hand, the research content of the book is truly the "self-acquired learning" that I have long sought to resolve. The renowned modern Chinese academic master Zhang Taiyan once said: "To be a scholar, one must not merely possess extensive knowledge and follow established methods, but also carry forward what predecessors have left. Without self-acquired insights, one can serve as a teacher or guardian but not be given the name of 'manifest learning'" (from Discourse on the National Customs in the Lower Volume of Essays on National Customs, Original Learning). In my research, I have always adhered to these two principles, emphasizing in-depth thinking and rational critique of major theoretical issues and macro historical puzzles. From the perspective of the fundamental requirements of academic work, without thinking and critique, one cannot speak of doing "genuine scholarship." Without the ability to "deeply grasp the essence and obtain subtle insights," one naturally cannot be given the name of "manifest learning." It should be said that there are also other considerations in calling my book "manifest learning." From the perspective of the internal requirements of academic development, attention should be paid to the study of academic history and the exploration of academic methodology. From the perspective of the external connections of academic development, academia and reality cannot be completely disconnected. Both seem to be "manifest points" that cannot be ignored in academic research.