UM Philosophy Forum Distinguished Scholars Series – 8, jointly organised by the Institute of Advanced Studies in Humanities and Social Sciences (IAS) and the Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies of the Faculty of Arts and Humanities (FAH) at the University of Macau, was successfully held on the afternoon of 24 October 2025 at the Faculty of Arts and Humanities Building (E21A-G049). The lecture featured Professor Xiangchen Sun, Professor of Philosophy and Dean of the Division of Humanities at Fudan University, as the keynote speaker. The session was moderated by Professor Di Wang, Associate Director of IAS and Chair Professor of the Department of History at UM, with Professor Jianhong Chen, Chair of the Department of Philosophy (Zhuhai) and Dean of the School of Liberal Arts at Sun Yat-sen University, serving as discussant.
At the beginning of the lecture, Professor Sun elaborated on the theme “The Chinese Language World and the Mission of Chinese Philosophy.” He pointed out that Chinese philosophy is not only constrained by the structure of its linguistic system but also challenged by the frameworks imposed by modernity. He argued that the central task of Chinese philosophy lies in returning to its intellectual roots, clarifying its present philosophical predicaments, and envisioning future directions for development.
Professor Sun then explored the distinctiveness of the “Chinese language world,” emphasising the fundamental differences between Chinese and Western linguistic frameworks in shaping modes of thought and worldviews. Reflecting on the ideas of Husserl and Heidegger, he noted that Chinese philosophy is not merely a study of language but an essential approach to understanding worldview and ontology. He further stressed that Chinese philosophy should not be confined to texts written in Chinese but should embody a unique philosophical wisdom that responds creatively to the challenges of globalisation.
During the discussion session, Professor Sun engaged actively with the audience in a lively exchange covering a wide range of topics, including the relationship between Chinese and Western philosophies, the universality and particularity of philosophy, the role of language and writing in philosophical expression, and the translation of foreign philosophical concepts into the Chinese intellectual context.
The event attracted a large number of scholars and students, inspiring thoughtful discussions on the nature of Chinese philosophy and its dialogue with Western thought. IAS will continue to host high-quality academic events to promote intellectual exchange and broaden perspectives in the humanities and philosophy.
