**Title: Building a Modern Civilization for the Chinese Nation: The Importance of the “Two Combinations”**
In a recent interview with Zang Fengyu, Dean of the School of Philosophy at Renmin University of China, we explored the critical role that the “two combinations” play in shaping modern Chinese civilization. As one of the world’s few ancient civilizations that has seamlessly transitioned into a nation-state, China’s journey toward modernity continues to capture global interest. A key component of this transformation involves integrating Marxism with China’s unique realities alongside its rich traditional culture.
**China News Service:** Why are the “two combinations” so vital in the historical progress of modern Chinese civilization?
**Zang Fengyu:** To build a modern civilization for the Chinese nation, we draw upon our historical traditions and the practical experiences of the Chinese people. This endeavor embodies the fusion of Marxist principles with our local realities and treasured culture, highlighting the distinctive traits of a new human civilization. It illustrates the strengths of the socialist framework while showcasing the contemporary appeal of our traditional culture. Furthermore, it reveals universal patterns in human social development, as well as the unique trajectories of cultural evolution shaped by specific historical contexts.
The unfolding narrative of modern Chinese civilization occurs within the framework of Chinese-style modernization and is clarified through an understanding of these two combinations. We must engage with this scientific methodology as Marxism emerged as a new civilization choice for enlightened Chinese thinkers confronted with the materialism of the West and the stagnation in Eastern thought.
**China News Service:** Can you elaborate on the relationship between the ‘two combinations’ and the construction of modern Chinese civilization?
**Zang Fengyu:** The path, theory, and system of socialism with Chinese characteristics represent developments led by the Chinese Communist Party, which continually promote the ‘two combinations.’ This integration has strengthened the foundation of our chosen path, establishing a dialectical unity between scientific socialism and the historical narrative of China’s social progress.
The second combination acts as a cultural base for forging a new destiny for the Chinese nation, generating vital energy for socialism with Chinese characteristics. As we experience another wave of ideological awakening, it broadens our theoretical and practical horizons for innovation, solidifying a cultural groundwork for Chinese-style modernization. This modernization seeks to harmonize material and spiritual development, reinterpreting ancient Chinese civilization in a contemporary context and contributing to new global civilizational forms.
By understanding the significance of the “two combinations,” we can gain insight into the logical processes of cultural inheritance and development. By situating the construction of socialist culture within the expansive continuum of history, we can appreciate the enduring essence of our cultural traditions.
**China News Service:** In your opinion, how has Chinese civilization achieved modern transformation?
**Zang Fengyu:** When we analyze this issue through the lenses of China’s 5,000-year legacy and 500 years of global socialism, we discover confidence rooted in our cultural creativity. Today’s China stands as a modern manifestation of an ancient civilization. Socialism with Chinese characteristics represents a unique, systemic civilization that has arisen from adapting Marxism to our context.
Modern Chinese civilization showcases the creative transformation and innovative progress of our rich traditional culture, emphasizing the enduring elements that have forged our national identity over millennia. This mirrors the concept of “using historical precedents to chart the future,” as our spirit of creativity and innovation remains pivotal in this cultural evolution.
In summary, we must maintain our historical and cultural confidence, utilizing the abundant resources embedded in our traditional culture to propel innovative transformations for modern society. Our objective is to blend enduring values with contemporary needs, all while cultivating new ideas that enhance our journey toward a flourishing Chinese nation.
**Interviewee Profile:**
Zang Fengyu is the Dean of the School of Philosophy at Renmin University of China. He is a professor and doctoral supervisor, recognized as a leader in philosophy and social sciences under the National High-Level Talent Special Support Plan. He holds various academic roles and has published extensively, including works such as “The Second Combination and Modern Civilization of the Chinese Nation,” and has translated several influential texts.
