Building the Ethical Foundation of Modern Civilization:Theoretical Consciousness,Value Reconstruction,and Civilization Dialogue
Building the modern civilization of the Chinese nation is an inevitable requirement for the realization of Chinese path to modernization,and is our new cultural mission in the new era.In the process of modernization,the ethical and moral development of society is facing a series of significant theoretical and practical problems.How to achieve creative transformation and innovative development of traditional Chinese ethical culture?How to establish a solid ethical foundation in a heterogeneous modern society,has become an urgent question that needs to be answered.Therefore,the International Conference on"Ethical Development and Chinese Path to Modernization"was held to discuss the relevant topics.Professor Li Ping elaborated on the significance of"ethical consciousness"for the development of modern Chinese civilization from the perspectives of history and practice.The development of modern civilization must maintain cultural self-awareness,reflection and criticism,especially during the major transformation period of civilization development.Professor He Lai emphasized that seeking the ethical path of"living together"in a heterogeneous modern society is a major ethical challenge that both Western and Chinese modernization processes cannot avoid.Therefore,we need to critically reflect on the traditional Chinese ethical system,absorbing its beneficial resources while fully understanding its limitations.Professor Wang Shuqin believed that we must properly handle the relationship between ethical differences and social solidarity,so that the tension between the two can achieve harmony and balance in mutual achievements.Researcher Tan Jizun proposed that we need to re-examine the status of rights in moral life,rather than viewing them as the moral basis for social practice or the moral legitimacy foundation for a better life.Professor Pang Junlai pointed out that Chinese path to modernization must be based on the core value of civilization.Only in this way can we respond to the dual tasks of"unfinished modernity"and"surpassing Western modernity"in theory and practice.Professor Thomas Pogge believed that the confrontational situation in the current international relation system exacerbates the risk of violent disasters and hinders the progress of ethical initiatives and cooperative reforms.He called for promoting the development of international relations towards moralization and laying a foundation of trust and respect for deeper reforms.