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北京大学英语新闻网/Peking University News
Greek Minister for Health and Social
Solidarity: On the Comparison of
Confucius and Socrates
PKU NEWS 2006--09—27
http://ennews.pku.edu.cn/news.php?s=159574255
Peking University, Beijing, Sept. 27th: Mr. Dimitris L. Avramopoulos, Greek Minister
for Health and Social Solidarity visited Peking University and delivered a speech on
the comparison of Confucius and Socrates‘ thoughts.
Former Chinese Ambassador to Greek Yang Guangsheng, dean of Center for
Hellenic Studies (PKU) Peng Xiaohui attended the speech presided by dean of
Department of Philosophy (PKU) Zhao Dunhua.
Mr. Avramopoulos said at the beginning of his speech that both Socrates and
Confucius are great philosophers, whose thoughts and works are glorious in the
history of philosophy. He then expounded from several aspects the striking similarity
of the nobility the two great philosophers possess------they both seek for a special
way of spiritual life while paying due respect to human beings‘ imagination; they are
both good at teaching and reach an understanding through listening attentively; they
both have deep insights into people‘s minds and advocate harmony and balance in
life. He also pointed out that both Socrates and Confucius share the same dream,
which is living in a stable society where people not only advocate the ancient, but
seek out new life and abide by the law.
After his speech, Zhao Dunhua summarized that both Socrates and Confucius use
―dialogue‖ as an academic approach. They are attentive listeners, not exerting their
own thoughts on others. Professor Zhao echoed Mr. Avramopoulos‘s speech, saying
that the philosophy of the two great philosophers is of great influence in modern
times.
Edited By : He Jibo
Translated By : Wang Yi
Source : Beida News (Chinese)
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