The Intellectual Foundations of Modern China

The Intellectual Foundations of Modern China

Session Material Below:

• https://supchina.com/2019/05/01/a-century-of-youth-protest-and-ideological-conflict-around-may-4/
• https://supchina.com/2019/04/24/protesting-in-the-name-of-science-may-fourth-movement/
• https://chinachannel.org/2020/05/04/may-4/ 

Hosted by Jason - Loves "Mr. Science" more than "Mr. Democracy"   

Genre: Non-Fiction, Article(s)  Approximately 20, 10, and 6 pgs respectively  

Description: 

This is a series of articles on the May 4th movement, the 1910s and 20s intellectual movement credited by many for laying the foundations for modern Chinese society and thought. The May 4th movement deeply shaped the Chinese Communist Party, the Nationalist Party, and other intellectual currents in China.   

The first essay, by a former journalist in China, is an excellent overview of the movement and ways it has reverberated since the 1920s. The second essay, by a Chinese-born physicist and writer now based in the US, offers a personal reflection on the role of science in Chinese policy. The third essay is similar to essay one in content, but offers some different takes and perspectives. It is by a writer living in China. 

Ambitious readers can consider reading sections of the Chinese Studies in History journal's special edition on the Centennial of the May 4th movement (116 pages). This issue (attached) features essays by 6 different Asia-based professors on different aspects of the May 4th movement, from the role of individualism to the connections with a similar movement in Korea.   

Alternatively, others may be interested in listening to the China History Podcast's episode on the May 4th movement (36 minutes) https://podcasts.apple.com/al/podcast/chp-046-the-may-4th-movement/id489369498?i=1000359105111. The episode is solid narrative history, particularly around the global events preceding the May 4th movement. However, I think it elides or misses many nuances.  

Intent of Session: Gain a basic understanding and appreciation for the varied intellectual currents that have shaped modern China.