Core Viewpoint - The establishment of the Chinese New Philosophy Research Association in 1949 marked a significant moment in the development of philosophical discourse in China, aiming to unite philosophers and promote new philosophical ideas in the context of a new democratic society [1]. Group 1: Historical Context - The Chinese New Philosophy Research Association was officially established on July 13, 1949, as announced in the first edition of the Guangming Daily [1]. - The association's mission included uniting philosophers to understand the development laws of a new democratic society and to critique and absorb old philosophical heritage [1]. Group 2: Key Figures - Renowned philosopher Zheng Xin was elected as the vice president of the association, having studied philosophy in Germany under the guidance of Bruno Bauch, a master of Neo-Kantianism [2]. - Zheng Xin returned to China in 1932 and became a professor at Peking University, later serving as the head of the philosophy department twice after the founding of the People's Republic of China [4]. Group 3: Contributions to Philosophy - Zheng Xin authored "A Study of Kant," which was the first comprehensive introduction to Kant's philosophy in China, significantly advancing the study of Kantian philosophy in the country [4]. - Under Zheng Xin's leadership, the "Philosophy" special publication was created to provide a platform for philosophical research and discussion, emphasizing the importance of serving the interests of the working people and socialist construction [5]. Group 4: Academic Influence - The "Philosophy" publication became a forefront for academic exchange in the national philosophical community, publishing significant papers and organizing discussions on the nature of truth [6]. - The discussions on truth had a profound impact on the academic community, maintaining a focus on scholarly issues without political overtones, which was considered a valuable aspect of the debates [6]. Group 5: Legacy and Impact - The publication's transformation from a biweekly to a weekly format under Zheng Xin significantly enhanced the timeliness and depth of philosophical discussions, providing a vital platform for scholars, especially younger researchers [6]. - The enduring legacy of the discussions and writings from that era reflects a commitment to academic courage and the pursuit of truth, which continues to resonate in contemporary philosophical discourse [6].

Core Insights - The document outlines a comprehensive study plan for Chinese and Western philosophy, emphasizing the importance of understanding key texts and concepts for exam preparation [9][25]. Group 1: Core Materials and Textbooks - Official textbooks for Chinese philosophy include "Chinese Philosophy History" by Peking University, which covers from pre-Qin to modern philosophy, providing clear logic and explanations for classical texts [1]. - "New Compilation of Chinese Philosophy History" by Guo Qiyong and Feng Dawen focuses on details and strengthens the understanding of Song-Ming Neo-Confucianism [2]. - "Song-Ming Neo-Confucianism" by Chen Lai offers in-depth analysis of Cheng-Zhu and Yangming schools, highlighting key exam points like "relationship between principle and material force" [3]. - For Western philosophy, "A Brief History of Western Philosophy" by Zhao Dunhua aligns closely with exam topics, covering essential theories like "Plato's Theory of Ideas" [4]. - "History of Western Philosophy" by Deng Xiaomang provides depth on German classical philosophy, aiding in understanding complex systems like "Hegel's Dialectics" [5]. Group 2: Study Methods and Techniques - The study plan includes a foundational phase focusing on reading and framework construction, with a structured approach to both Chinese and Western philosophy [9]. - Emphasis is placed on creating comparative tables and timelines to visualize the evolution of philosophical thoughts and concepts [9]. - The strengthening phase involves timed practice with past exam questions, focusing on logical development in essay questions [9]. - The final phase includes memorization techniques and full simulation tests to prepare for complex comparative questions [11]. Group 3: Exam Preparation Strategies - The document suggests using a structured approach for answering essay questions, employing a "total - part - total" format to enhance clarity and depth [24]. - It highlights the importance of understanding the differences between various philosophical schools, such as "Li Ben Lun" versus "Xin Ben Lun" in Chinese philosophy [16]. - The need for continuous review of past exam questions and the creation of a "weakness list" for targeted study is emphasized [28].