#Ningbo #Chinese Philosophy #Wang Yangming

The 2025 Conference on Wang Yangming Mind Philosophy in Ningbo

On October 30, 2025, the 2025 Conference on Wang Yangming Mind Philosophy commenced in Yuyao, Ningbo, coinciding with the birth anniversary of the eminent philosopher Wang Yangming (1472-1529). This event is pivotal as it celebrates the contributions of Wang Yangming, centralizing discussions around his philosophies and their applications in contemporary society.

Philosophy and Themes

The theme of the conference is "boundless mind studies, coexisting civilizations," which sets the stage for exploring how Wang Yangming's ideas resonate in today's multicultural world. The conference included various sub-events such as the Sino-Foreign Exchange Symposium on Wang Yangming Culture and the Zhongtian Pavilion Forum Wang Defeng Session. These gatherings attracted over 800 participants, ranging from scholars dedicated to studying Wang Yangming to representatives from organizations that preserve his historical sites.

Wang Yangming's Enduring Influence

Yuyao, recognized as Wang Yangming's birthplace, remains deeply intertwined with his legacy. Today, a significant number of local businesses—over 400—are branded with his name, demonstrating the philosopher’s lasting impact on the region. Moreover, 12 out of Yuyao’s 122 schools carry his name, reflecting his importance in educational contexts. Cultural projects, such as the Yaoju opera titled "Wang Yangming," have toured internationally, including performances in Japan, highlighting the philosopher's prominence beyond China’s borders.

Initiatives to promote his culture are vibrant; recent videos titled "Wang Yangming Anecdotes" have gained traction overseas. The slogan "Yuyao, hometown of Wang Yangming, gathers wisdom" has been embraced globally, serving as a bridge for international audiences to appreciate Chinese culture.

Practical Applications of Wang Yangming's Philosophy

The influence of Wang Yangming is manifested in various sectors in Ningbo. For instance, Pairdeer Batteries, a notable local brand, aligns its product philosophy with the principles of Wang Yangming, continually innovating for the past 70 years. The company is now a leader in the smart lock battery market and has made significant strides in alkaline battery production.

Another example is the "Sunny" optical lens, which began in modest surroundings but now plays a crucial role in the global supply chain. The Ningbo Yangming Industrial Technology Research Institute has been instrumental in nurturing numerous businesses through its innovative incubation model, demonstrating the practical applicability of Yangming's teachings in fostering modern entrepreneurship.

International Dissemination and Cultural Exchange

Wang Yangming's cultural reach extends beyond Chinese borders into Japan and Korea. Scholars like Professor Nagatomi Seiji from Waseda University have noted the clear impact of Yangming's doctrine on Japanese corporate practices, particularly the principle of