China's cultural and intellectual rejuvenation

Abstract

China has emerged as a new economic power and its impacts are felt in many parts of the world. However, the rise of China is likely to make an even more enduring contribution to the world if its economic growth is accompanied by a cultural and intellectual rejuvenation. Such kind of rejuvenation has happened before in Chinese history and the history of other countries. At present, we are seeing early stages of the cultural revival. Though the prospects appear good, it remains open whether China will be able to see the full development of the Chinese Enlightenment. Much of it depends on the vision and commitment of the Chinese intellectuals, other social strata and the Chinese government. © Springer-Verlag 2008.