Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significance of the traditional Chinese printing technique, woodblock printing, as a vital means of cultural preservation and transmission, particularly through the efforts of inheritors like Ren Baoquan in Beijing's Daxing District [5][6][12]. Group 1: Cultural Heritage and Techniques - Woodblock printing is referred to as the "mother of civilization" in China, facilitating the preservation, dissemination, and development of culture [5]. - The invention of woodblock printing allowed for easier and larger-scale access to historical information compared to earlier methods like knot-tying and stone carving [6]. - The project has been recognized as one of the first batch of intangible cultural heritage workshops in Beijing, emphasizing the importance of passing down traditional skills [12]. Group 2: Educational Initiatives - Ren Baoquan has designed new products to make learning about ancient texts more accessible for children, including simplified versions of traditional characters [12]. - The workshop has created woodblocks featuring auspicious characters like "福" (Fu) to engage students in cultural studies, particularly in the context of the Year of the Horse [12][14]. - The fifth-generation inheritor, Dai Huiwen, has crafted themed woodblocks related to the Year of the Horse, such as "马上封侯" (Instantly Achieve Official Rank) and "小马读书" (Little Horse Reading), to facilitate educational activities for schoolchildren [14][18]. Group 3: Contributions and Achievements - Ren Baoquan is a member of the Chinese Ancient Books Protection Association and has produced over 20 significant works using woodblock printing techniques, including historical texts like the "Yongle Encyclopedia" and "Dunhuang Manuscripts" [19]. - The workshop's efforts not only preserve traditional techniques but also adapt them for modern educational purposes, ensuring the continuity of cultural heritage [12][19].

Core Insights - The integration of AI in the proofreading of ancient texts is significantly enhancing efficiency, allowing for the collaboration of thousands of university students and volunteers [1][2] - AI serves as a "digital key" that revitalizes traditional culture, enabling the preservation and transmission of ancient wisdom in a modern context [1][2] Group 1: AI's Role in Cultural Preservation - AI is transforming the proofreading process of ancient texts like the "Yongle Dadian" and the "Kangxi Dictionary," increasing efficiency by several times compared to traditional methods [1] - The historical reliance on manual labor for ancient text organization has been improved with AI, which addresses the slow speed and errors associated with earlier computer text entry methods [1] Group 2: Human-AI Collaboration - While AI enhances efficiency, it is not infallible; experts are still needed to verify rare characters and special contexts, highlighting the importance of human oversight [1] - The collaboration between AI and humans allows individuals to focus on deeper interpretation and creative transformation of cultural content, representing an ideal state of "human-machine collaboration" [1]

Core Viewpoint - The preservation and promotion of excellent traditional Chinese culture rely heavily on the organization, publication, digitization, and revitalization of ancient texts [1][2]. Group 1: Ancient Texts and Cultural Heritage - The work of organizing ancient texts is a reflection of the multi-faceted nature of Chinese culture, as seen from historical texts like "Records of the Grand Historian" and "Comprehensive Mirror for Aid in Government" [1]. - The "Comprehensive Organization Research of the Yongle Encyclopedia" project has made significant progress, with the first phase of modern punctuation work completed and the second phase expected to be fully completed in three years [4][5]. - The "Qilu Library" project aims to systematically investigate, organize, and publish works by authors from Shandong, with 300 volumes already published [6]. Group 2: Digitalization and Accessibility - There is a pressing need for the digitalization and public accessibility of ancient texts in Shandong, as many valuable resources remain underutilized in libraries and museums [2][3]. - Digitalization allows researchers to access a broader range of materials and significantly shortens research cycles, enhancing the study of traditional culture [3]. Group 3: Cultural Development and Modern Relevance - The rise of trends like Hanfu and cultural products contributes to the transmission of traditional culture, but these are seen as superficial compared to deeper cultural construction [2]. - The development of modern cultural works that reflect contemporary societal changes is essential for the evolution of traditional culture [2][8]. - The integration of traditional culture with modern life is necessary for creating relevant cultural products that resonate with contemporary audiences [9]. Group 4: Characteristics of Qilu Culture - Qilu culture, originating from the historical states of Qi and Lu, is characterized by its diversity and flexibility, producing many influential figures in Chinese philosophy [10]. - The region is recognized as a cultural highland, contributing significantly to the core of Chinese culture through its historical figures and schools of thought [10].

Core Viewpoint - The interview highlights the importance of ancient text organization as a reflection of the multi-faceted nature of Chinese culture, emphasizing the need for digitalization and public access to ancient texts for effective cultural transmission [1][3][4]. Group 1: Ancient Text Organization - The project "Comprehensive Organization Research of the Surviving Volumes of the Yongle Encyclopedia" has completed its first phase, focusing on modern punctuation, and is now in the publication process [4]. - The second phase of the project, which involves re-compiling the Yongle Encyclopedia, has made significant progress and is expected to be completed in three years [4]. - The "Qilu Library" project aims to systematically investigate, organize, and publish works by authors from Shandong, with 300 volumes already published [1][6]. Group 2: Cultural Transmission and Digitalization - There is a pressing need for the digitalization and public accessibility of ancient texts in Shandong, as many valuable texts remain underutilized in libraries and museums [3][6]. - Digitalization is seen as essential for revitalizing ancient texts, allowing broader access and understanding of the cultural heritage they embody [3][6]. - The cultural construction requires a balance between learning from both historical and contemporary cultures, as well as integrating modern creativity [2][8]. Group 3: Cultural Significance and Development - The development of cultural products like Hanfu and intangible cultural heritage items has contributed to the transmission of traditional culture, but these efforts are viewed as superficial [2][7]. - There is a call for deeper cultural works that reflect the changes in Chinese society since the reform and opening up, including dramas, novels, and music [2][7][8]. - The complexity of cultural construction necessitates a comprehensive approach that includes both traditional and modern elements, ensuring that cultural works resonate with contemporary life [2][8].

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of preserving and organizing ancient texts, particularly the "Yongle Dadian," as a means to safeguard cultural heritage and inspire national rejuvenation [1][4]. Group 1: Project Overview - The "Yongle Dadian" is a monumental work compiled during the Ming Dynasty, consisting of over 20,000 volumes and 10,000 copies, representing the cultural achievements of its time [4]. - The project led by Du Zexun involves the collection, protection, organization, and publication of the "Yongle Dadian," with the aim of rescuing valuable cultural heritage [4][5]. - As of the end of 2025, the first phase of modern punctuation work has been completed and is in the publication process with Zhonghua Book Company [4]. Group 2: Collaborative Efforts - Du Zexun has formed an expert team and collaborated with over 70 universities across the country to advance the project [4]. - The second phase of the project, which involves the reorganization of the "Yongle Dadian," has also achieved significant progress, with plans for digital processing to facilitate access for readers [4]. Group 3: Cultural Significance - The work is seen as a vital part of preserving Chinese civilization and traditional culture, which are considered the roots and soul of the Chinese nation [5]. - Du Zexun highlights the need for persistent efforts in cultural endeavors, suggesting that long-term dedication will lead to substantial success [5].

Core Viewpoint - The digitization of ancient texts is essential for their preservation and public accessibility, transforming them from dormant artifacts into active cultural resources [1][3]. Group 1: Digitalization Efforts - Shandong Province has approximately 120,000 ancient texts and nearly 2 million volumes, with ongoing efforts to digitize and publicly share these resources through a dedicated digital platform [3]. - The establishment of the digital resource platform aims to break temporal and spatial limitations, allowing more ancient texts to reach the public [3]. Group 2: Specific Projects - The team led by Du Zexun is working on the comprehensive organization and research of the "Yongle Dadian," which consists of over 20,000 volumes and is considered the largest encyclopedia in human history [3]. - Currently, only about 800 volumes and over 400 copies of the "Yongle Dadian" exist, representing only 4% of the original work, with ongoing efforts to complete modern punctuation and editing [3]. - The "Qilu Wenkong" project, initiated in 2022, aims to compile and publish the works of Shandong scholars over a decade, with the first 100 volumes published in 2023 and plans for further releases in 2024 and 2025 [5]. Group 3: Challenges and Discoveries - The manuscript collection process is often challenging, as illustrated by the discovery of a complete manuscript of "Ranzhi Ji," which had been lost for over 300 years, now set for publication in 2026 [5]. - The digitization and publication of these ancient texts are expected to enhance their accessibility and relevance in contemporary society [6].

Core Viewpoint - The book "Twenty Lectures on the History of Chinese Editing and Publishing" by Liu Yunfeng systematically outlines the evolution of editing and publishing in China from ancient times to the present, emphasizing the cultural significance and social role of editing work [8][14]. Group 1: Historical Context and Development - The history of Chinese editing and publishing can be traced back to Confucius, who, despite not authoring books, played a crucial role in organizing and preserving classical texts, establishing the foundation for Chinese literary tradition [7][9]. - Since the 1980s, significant works have emerged in the field of publishing history, laying the groundwork for research, including comprehensive studies like "The General History of Chinese Publishing" [8][9]. - The book is structured into three main sections, focusing on key figures and milestones in editing history, from pre-modern editors like Confucius to modern publications such as "The Complete Works of Lu Xun" [9][10]. Group 2: Key Figures and Their Contributions - Confucius is highlighted as the "father of editing," whose work in compiling the Six Classics reflects an early understanding of the importance of editing for knowledge dissemination [9][10]. - Liu Xiang and Liu Xin's efforts in cataloging court collections laid the groundwork for systematic book classification and cataloging in Chinese history [9][10]. - Sima Qian's "Records of the Grand Historian" introduced innovative editing methods that elevated the role of editors from mere recorders to active shapers of historical narrative [9][12]. Group 3: Thematic Focus and Methodology - The book emphasizes the relationship between editing practices and societal changes, showcasing how significant texts reflect the cultural and ideological shifts of their times [10][12]. - It explores the aesthetic aspects of publishing, including the rise of modern reference books and the intricate printing techniques used in special publications, thus broadening the understanding of editing beyond mere text handling [10][12]. - The author employs a rigorous historical methodology, analyzing the lives and philosophies of notable editors to illustrate the deeper cultural significance of their work [12][14]. Group 4: Modern Implications and Legacy - The book discusses the evolution of modern editions of "The Complete Works of Lu Xun," revealing how each version reflects the historical context and cultural perceptions of Lu Xun's legacy [13][14]. - It serves as a bridge connecting ancient and modern editing practices, highlighting the continuous role of editors in shaping cultural narratives and preserving knowledge [14][15]. - The work aims to inspire contemporary editors by emphasizing the importance of cultural ideals and the responsibilities that come with the editing profession [14][15].

Group 1 - The core idea of the article revolves around the historical significance and tumultuous fate of the "Yongle Dadian," a massive encyclopedia compiled during the Ming Dynasty, which faced destruction and loss over centuries [2][3][11]. - The "Yongle Dadian" consists of 22,877 volumes, divided into 11,095 books, with a total word count of approximately 370 million, encompassing a vast array of literature, history, philosophy, and sciences from before the Ming Dynasty [11][19]. - The encyclopedia was commissioned by Emperor Zhu Di and took five years to compile, involving over 3,000 contributors [11][15]. Group 2 - The "Yongle Dadian" suffered significant losses due to fires, wars, and theft, with only 64 volumes remaining by the early Republic of China period, despite efforts to recover the lost texts [2][29][32]. - The collection was notably affected during the Boxer Rebellion in 1900, when the Hanlin Academy, which housed many volumes, was set on fire, leading to the destruction of countless ancient texts [6][10][30]. - After the Boxer Rebellion, some surviving volumes were returned to China, with the National Library currently holding 224 volumes, the largest collection worldwide [30][34]. Group 3 - The "Yongle Dadian" reflects the cultural and political dynamics of its time, serving as a tool for Emperor Zhu Di to consolidate power and address societal unrest following his usurpation of the throne [14][15]. - The compilation process of the "Yongle Dadian" was influenced by earlier works and aimed to create a comprehensive reference that included a wide range of subjects, unlike previous encyclopedias that focused primarily on Confucian classics [17][18]. - The fate of the "Yongle Dadian" highlights the broader historical context of cultural preservation in China, with its compilation and subsequent losses illustrating the challenges faced by Chinese literature and scholarship over centuries [26][28].

Core Viewpoint - The exhibition "Eternal Cultural Heritage" showcases the historical significance and cultural journey of the "Siku Quanshu" (Complete Library of the Four Treasuries), emphasizing its role in preserving Chinese civilization and its connection to national identity [3][12]. Group 1: Exhibition Overview - The exhibition is part of the 20th anniversary series of Zhejiang Province's cultural construction initiatives and is co-hosted by several cultural organizations [3]. - It features five thematic units that chronologically outline the history of the "Siku Quanshu," including its compilation, preservation during wars, and global dissemination [3]. Group 2: Historical Context - The "Siku Quanshu," completed during the Qianlong era, is recognized as the largest collection of ancient Chinese literature, comprising 34,610 titles and 79,309 volumes, with a significant portion being classified as "classical literature" [6][9]. - The project involved extensive efforts to collect and correct texts, contributing significantly to the preservation of Chinese literary heritage [6][9]. Group 3: Cultural Significance - The "Siku Quanshu" serves as a cultural summary of ancient Chinese scholarship, reflecting the intertwining of literary and national identity [7][11]. - The exhibition highlights the dedication of scholars and collectors throughout history who have worked to safeguard and restore these texts, particularly during tumultuous periods [10][11]. Group 4: Modern Implications - The ongoing publication project of the "Siku Quanshu" aims to continue the legacy of cultural preservation and enhance cultural confidence in contemporary society [12][13]. - The completed editions are now housed in various prestigious institutions worldwide, facilitating international scholarly exchange and reinforcing the global presence of Chinese culture [13].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the phenomenon of "Western pseudohistory" and the belief that the "Yongle Encyclopedia" is a symbol of civilization superiority, reflecting a cultural defense mechanism in response to globalization and historical grievances [7][34][41]. Group 1: Historical Context - The "Yongle Encyclopedia," compiled during the Ming Dynasty, is presented as a monumental work that symbolizes ancient wisdom and knowledge [4][20]. - The belief that Western civilizations have fabricated their histories, particularly regarding ancient Greece, Egypt, and Rome, is central to the pseudohistory narrative [7][8]. Group 2: Cultural Phenomenon - The popularity of the "Yongle Encyclopedia" as a source of knowledge stems from a societal reverence for encyclopedias, particularly during periods of rapid social change and educational competition [21][22]. - The article highlights the historical context of encyclopedia consumption as a reflection of societal aspirations for knowledge and security during transformative periods [22][26]. Group 3: Psychological Drivers - The belief in the "Yongle Encyclopedia" as a source of all knowledge is linked to a collective desire for recognition and dignity in the face of cultural and historical challenges [34][35]. - The rise of pseudohistory narratives is seen as a coping mechanism for feelings of loss and insecurity in a rapidly changing world [34][37]. Group 4: Contemporary Relevance - The article notes a significant increase in videos promoting or refuting pseudohistory on platforms like Bilibili, indicating a growing interest in these narratives among younger audiences [37]. - The discussion emphasizes that engaging in pseudohistory may not effectively address the underlying issues of cultural identity and historical understanding [38][41].