Core Insights - The article discusses the legacy of historian Xu Zhuoyun, who passed away at the age of 95, emphasizing his contributions to understanding Chinese culture and human values through his work "Looking Back at Rivers: Chinese Culture and Life Values" [2][3] Group 1: Cultural Insights - Xu Zhuoyun highlights the importance of bridging the gap between academic research and general knowledge, aiming to make scholarly findings accessible to the public [2] - The book traces the origins and evolution of Chinese culture, emphasizing its unique ability to integrate diverse influences, which is valuable in today's world [2][4] - Xu warns against the marginalization of the humanities, suggesting that it could lead to a retreat of humanistic spirit [2][4] Group 2: Human Experience - The author focuses on reconstructing the daily lives of ordinary people, moving beyond traditional historical narratives that often center on elites [5][6] - He emphasizes the significance of understanding human experiences, such as agriculture, rituals, and daily practices, as essential to grasping the broader historical context [6] Group 3: Philosophical Reflections - Xu poses fundamental questions about the meaning of life and the purpose of existence, advocating for self-fulfillment and helping others as core values [7][8] - He critiques the contemporary focus on materialism and efficiency, urging a return to seeking meaning and spiritual fulfillment in life [6][9] - The author encourages individuals to maintain dignity and personal space in a rapidly changing world, suggesting that true success lies in finding inner peace rather than external achievements [9]