Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the historical and cultural significance of the Zhu Zhang Ferry, emphasizing its role in the academic exchanges between renowned scholars Zhu Xi and Zhang Shi during the Song Dynasty, and its lasting legacy in Chinese civilization [1][2][3]. Group 1: Historical Significance - Zhu Zhang Ferry is not an ordinary crossing; it has witnessed the transmission of Chinese civilization over centuries, with poets and revolutionaries commemorating it [1]. - The ferry was named after the frequent travels of Zhu Xi and Zhang Shi, who engaged in profound academic discussions, contributing to the development of the Huashang school of thought [2][3]. Group 2: Academic Exchange - Zhu Xi and Zhang Shi established a platform for scholarly discussions that attracted numerous listeners, indicating the ferry's role as a hub for intellectual exchange [3]. - Their discussions covered essential concepts in Neo-Confucianism, such as "Zhonghe" (Central Harmony) and "Taiji" (Supreme Ultimate), showcasing the depth of their academic engagement [2][3]. Group 3: Cultural Legacy - The ferry has become a symbol of the friendship and academic collaboration between Zhu Xi and Zhang Shi, with commemorative statues and inscriptions erected to honor their contributions [3]. - Today, the ferry still operates, serving as a nostalgic reminder of the historical figures and their intellectual legacy, with many students choosing to cross the river by ferry rather than using nearby bridges [4].

Core Perspective - Confucianism, as a significant ancient Chinese philosophy, has maintained its relevance over thousands of years, shaping Chinese culture and increasingly demonstrating its contemporary value and global significance in the context of ecological crises and ethical vacuums [3][4]. Group 1: Confucian Values - The core values of Confucianism are encapsulated in the five constants: benevolence (仁), righteousness (义), propriety (礼), wisdom (智), and trustworthiness (信) [4]. - Confucianism emphasizes ethical practice and social participation, advocating for personal moral cultivation to promote harmony in families, societies, and nations [4][5]. Group 2: Contemporary Relevance - In modern society, Confucianism's emphasis on benevolence in governance is seen as a necessary moral remedy, urging that governance should prioritize human-centric approaches and compassion [5]. - The rise of utilitarianism in contemporary values often sacrifices moral and emotional aspects, leading to social alienation, which Confucianism addresses by promoting a more humane path [7]. Group 3: East-West Comparative Insights - Confucianism contrasts with Western individualism by emphasizing collective ethics and hierarchical relationships, providing a more compassionate alternative to the efficiency-driven mindset prevalent in modern society [7][10]. - The Confucian principle of governance by virtue suggests that moral character and leadership are essential for effective governance, offering a valuable perspective amidst global political trust crises [7][10]. Group 4: Global Civilization Dialogue - Confucianism's concepts of harmony and coexistence can contribute to resolving conflicts between civilizations, advocating for mutual respect and cultural inclusivity [9][10]. - The philosophy encourages a balance between individual freedom and social responsibility, addressing issues of social fragmentation and spiritual loneliness in some Western societies [10]. Group 5: Future Directions - Promoting successful cross-civilization cooperation, such as Confucianism's "harmony in diversity," can provide shared wisdom for contemporary global governance challenges [12][13]. - The future of human civilization should focus on the integration of technological advancement with moral development, fostering a multi-faceted coexistence of diverse cultures [13].

Core Viewpoint - Li Jiya, the first Sinologist to translate "The Analects" and "The Doctrine of the Mean" into Italian, emphasizes the significance of Chinese philosophical concepts, particularly the idea of "harmony in diversity," which is increasingly relevant in today's world [3][7]. Group 1: Background and Education - Li Jiya began her studies at the University of Venice in 1982, choosing Chinese as her major due to her interest in China [4]. - She furthered her studies in Chinese language and philosophy at Beijing Language University and Fudan University, deepening her understanding of Chinese philosophical texts [4]. - After returning to Italy, she graduated with honors and obtained a PhD in Sinology from Leiden University, later becoming the first female president of the University of Venice in 2020 [4]. Group 2: Translation and Cultural Exchange - Li Jiya believes that language is the key to understanding a civilization, highlighting the historical translation of Chinese texts into Latin by Matteo Ricci over 400 years ago [5]. - She has translated key Chinese philosophical concepts such as "ren" (benevolence) and "li" (ritual) into modern Italian, emphasizing the challenges of conveying their rich meanings [5]. - Li Jiya has authored several works, including "Confucianism," which introduces the core ideas of Confucian thought to Italian readers, asserting its global relevance [6]. Group 3: Philosophical Insights - The concept of "harmony" in Confucianism is particularly impactful for Li Jiya, representing harmony among people, society, and the environment [7]. - She connects the idea of "harmony" to modern sustainable development, encompassing environmental, economic, and social sustainability [7]. - Li Jiya argues that ancient Chinese classics provide rich nourishment for contemporary political thought, with concepts like "harmony in diversity" and the pursuit of goodness rooted in these texts [7]. Group 4: Promoting Cultural Understanding - Li Jiya emphasizes the shared values between Italian and Chinese cultures, such as the importance of family and genuine friendship, advocating for deeper cultural exchanges [8]. - At the University of Venice, she has introduced courses on Chinese philosophy and classical literature, using classic texts to guide students in understanding Chinese culture [9]. - She plans to incorporate "Shan Hai Jing" (Classic of Mountains and Seas) and Chinese supernatural tales into the curriculum to showcase the diversity of Chinese literature [9]. Group 5: Importance of Language Learning - Despite advancements in AI translation, Li Jiya advocates for the study of classical Chinese, asserting that language is a vehicle for thought and understanding [10]. - She believes that firsthand experiences in China are crucial for truly grasping Chinese culture, similar to Marco Polo's historical contributions to cultural exchange [10]. - The University of Venice has established student exchange programs with several Chinese universities, facilitating mutual understanding and friendship between Italian and Chinese students [10].