吴文藻:社会学中国化的践行者
Xin Lang Cai Jing·2025-12-25 23:32

Core Viewpoint - The biography "Wu Wenzao: From the Sinicization of Sociology to the Reconstruction of Chinese Sociology" by Sun Feiyu fills a gap in the understanding of Wu Wenzao's contributions to Chinese sociology and highlights the early development of the discipline in China [3][4]. Group 1: Early Academic Journey - Wu Wenzao began his academic journey at Tsinghua University at the age of 15 and later pursued further studies in sociology and anthropology at Dartmouth College and Columbia University, where he was influenced by Franz Boas' cultural relativism and fieldwork methods [3][4]. - He earned his Ph.D. in 1928 and became prominent in the international academic community, driven by a belief in adapting sociology to fit Chinese contexts [3][4]. Group 2: Advocacy for Sinicization of Sociology - Upon returning to China, Wu Wenzao advocated for the "Sinicization of Sociology," emphasizing the need for sociology to address local issues rather than relying solely on Western theories [4]. - He initiated teaching reforms at Yenching University, opting to teach in Chinese instead of English, which was a significant shift in the academic landscape at the time [4]. Group 3: Contributions During Turbulent Times - The outbreak of the Second Sino-Japanese War disrupted Wu Wenzao's academic plans, but he continued to contribute by establishing a sociology department at Yunnan University and promoting research that addressed local societal needs [5]. - He faced challenges in Yunnan due to ideological differences but remained committed to education and research, even while transitioning into political roles in Chongqing [5]. Group 4: Post-War Contributions and Challenges - After World War II, Wu Wenzao served as a political advisor in Japan and later returned to China to focus on ethnic studies, contributing significantly to the training of professionals in this field [6]. - The suppression of sociology in China for over two decades did not deter him; he continued to engage with international theories and contributed to academic publications [6]. Group 5: Revival of Sociology in China - With the onset of the reform and opening-up period, Wu Wenzao played a crucial role in revitalizing sociology, integrating contemporary issues such as environmental protection and post-industrial society into the discipline [6][7]. - His efforts in promoting international academic exchanges helped bridge Chinese sociology with global perspectives, enhancing its relevance and impact [7].