Historians' Tea House (First Series)

Author: Wang Zhaocheng, Editor-in-Chief
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-05-01
Features: History is in the past, but no one can deny its causal relationship with the present and the future. Most people study history—whether events, figures, experiences, or lessons—with an eye toward the present and the future. Some scholars consciously or unconsciously choose to maintain a certain distance from reality. As a result, objectivity may seem possible, but it also leads to the absence and silence of historians when facing major social issues in the real world. In reality, how can history be separated from the present? If studying history does not focus on the present, what is the necessity of the discipline? Studying and writing history should not sever the connection between history and the present. Only by truly engaging with reality can one approach history with a deeper and broader perspective, becoming a responsible historian.
At this point, I’d like to say something about Zhang Chunru. It’s hard to call her a traditional historian, yet she achieved what many historians could never attain in a lifetime through her passion. She devoted her heart, and even her life, to gazing upon the wounds that a nation, a country, and even the entire world cannot ignore. Zhang Chunru has passed away. There are various speculations about her death. As a member of the historical academia, I feel not only regret for the fall of such a young and brilliant life but also a sense of guilt. If we could pay more attention to reality, if we could do something more concrete for history—making history relevant to the present requires not only courage but also engaging topics and styles.
Today, we have entered an era of informatization, fast, and high efficiency, but people also need more leisure and relaxation. Therefore, being meaningful, interesting, and useful should be the direction and pursuit of both our authors and editors. The "Tea House of Historians" is now open. If our "patrons" are willing, they can come here to discuss scholarship, share everyday stories, enjoy tea and philosophical debates, and appreciate both the refined and the popular. We welcome you with respect!