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The Recent Breakthrough in World China Studies

The Second World Conference on China Studies took place from October 15 to 17, 2025, in the vibrant city of Shanghai. This conference brought together an array of scholars, experts, and academics to delve deep into the themes surrounding the historical and modern significance of China in a global context. It provided a unique platform to explore how diverse academic disciplines interpret China’s rich history and its contemporary role on the world stage.

One of the most significant achievements of this event was the unveiling of the "Recommended Bibliography for World China Studies Research". This bibliography, collectively released by respected institutions such as Beijing Foreign Studies University, the National Library of China, and others, focuses on the theme "Historical and Contemporary China: A Global Perspective".

The bibliography comprises 54 carefully selected works published over the last two decades, representing a diverse range of theoretical advancements in the field. Of these, 14 are attributed to Chinese scholars, while the majority—40—are contributions from international scholars hailing from 16 different countries and writing in nine languages.

A Multi-Faceted Approach to China Studies

The selected works span four critical domains:
1. Historical, Cultural, and Archaeological Studies: This area focuses on understanding China's past, exploring its rich cultural heritage and archaeological findings that shape our understanding of Chinese civilization.
2. Political, Economic, and Social Studies: These analyses tackle contemporary issues in China's governance, economic reforms, and social dynamics within both domestic and international arenas.
3. Linguistic, Literary, and Artistic Studies: This domain encompasses the examination of Chinese literature and art, reflecting on how these cultural expressions convey the ethos and ideals of Chinese society.
4. Philosophical, Religious, and Ideological Studies: Here, the focus is on the philosophical underpinnings of Chinese thought, including Confucianism and its various interpretations through the ages.

By offering insights into these diverse fields, the bibliography serves as a key resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of China’s evolution and its role in the global arena.

Spotlight on Key Works

Among the noteworthy titles featured in the bibliography, a few stand out:

• - Xi Jinping Thought - Through South African Eyes by Paul Zilungisele Tembe: This book offers insights into how China’s policies can influence other nations, particularly in Africa.
• - Just A Song: Chinese Lyrics from the Eleventh and Early Twelfth Centuries by Stephen Owen: It provides a close reading of Chinese literary heritage, specifically focusing on the Song Dynasty's poetry.
• - On China by Henry Kissinger: A profound exploration of China’s historical evolution and its diplomatic strategies, as articulated by a former US Secretary of State.

The Way Forward

The breadth of these works underscores the thriving momentum in the field of World China Studies, illustrating the diverse methodological approaches to understanding China. This academic endeavor not only documents the current state of research but also ignites interest in future explorations of this vast and intricate subject.

As the conference concluded, participants left with a renewed sense of purpose to further investigate China’s past and how it informs contemporary challenges and opportunities. The future of World China Studies looks promising, with these 54 recommended works not only reflecting the academic rigor but also paving the way for an expanded understanding of a nation that plays a pivotal role on the global stage.

In this ever-evolving landscape of research, the insights gathered will surely influence scholars and policymakers alike, fostering a greater appreciation for the complexities of China and its place in the world.