Celebrating World Philosophy Day
Advancing Human Civilization with Conscience and Wisdom
Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze
President of Federation of World Peace and Love
Vice-President of Association of World Citizens
Zhang-men-ren of Tai Ji Men
Nov. 18, 2021
Philosophy is the study of the universe through the power of human reason and discernment, covering the fields of life, knowledge, reason, spirituality, language, and others, as well as the values derived from them, including morality and character formation. "I think, therefore I am" is a famous quote by the French philosopher Descartes. It emphasizes the importance of independent thinking and the verification of existing knowledge in the world and has had a profound influence on Western philosophy. The desire to seek the truth, the sensitivity to metaphysical consciousness and the ability to think rationally about people and things are some of the qualities that distinguish human beings from other creatures and enhance their spirituality beyond their instinctive needs.
The word "philosophy" is derived from a Greek word meaning "love of wisdom." Where did I come from? Where will I go? People have never stopped reflecting and debating on their own existence and the phenomena and dilemmas they face in the present world, so as to more effectively address the challenges faced by human beings today. In 2005, UNESCO designated the third Thursday of November as World Philosophy Day, highlighting the value of philosophy to human thought, cultures, and personal development, to better understand the world, build more inclusive societies, and promote tolerance and peace. World citizens are encouraged to address critical issues by promoting critical thinking, analysis, and creativity, and to share one another's philosophical legacies to strengthen international cooperation in various fields and help contemporary societies address multidimensional challenges. World Philosophy Day 2021 opens the discussion on the interaction between human beings and their social, cultural, geographical, and political environments, especially in the wake of the pandemic, in the hope of better understanding the contribution of philosophy in our contemporary society.
The tolerance of different ideas and doctrines allowed for more brilliant flowers of civilization following mutual collision and stimulation, as exemplified by the hundred schools of thought in the pre-Qin era. For example, Mozi advocated the idea of love and non-attack, and used his talents in science and technology and mechanical manufacturing to develop instruments for defense and production, and at the same time, through the education of literature, science, military, and industry, he implemented philosophical ideas through education and laid the foundation for the development of modern science. The need for social change has allowed various schools of thought to test and implement their doctrines, and consequently, new technologies, new policies, new cultures, and new trends of thought have emerged, largely contributing to the advancement of society and the development of human civilization, and bringing far-reaching effects to future generations. This shows that the dialectical thinking of philosophy is the cornerstone of cultural and technological development, and through the process of inquiring into the status quo, asking questions, testing hypotheses, solving problems, and deducing conclusions, we can construct an important ideological force indispensable to human society, such as democracy, freedom, equality, human rights, justice, and other universal values that drive social change and are the most precious cultural assets of mankind.
Different cultures have different spiritual meanings and values and can give birth to unique philosophical ideas. The Tai Ji Men culture that I have inherited originates from Daoism and is based on the natural principles of the universe, emphasizing the balance between ourselves and others, among people, and between humans and the environment. The black and white in the Tai Ji symbol represent yin and yang, symbolizing all the opposing elements and energies in the universe. Yin and yang mutually reinforce each other, seeking balance in all interactions, which presents opportunities for everything to harmoniously change and adapt to new circumstances. If people's minds and bodies are in balance, they can stay calm and carefree and obtain holistic health. If the interactions among people and between people and their surroundings are in balance, they can live and grow sustainably. If nations are in balance with one another, then a peaceful world is no longer just a dream. The root of philosophical thought is the functioning of the “heart.” We must be the masters of our own hearts, reflect on them daily, explore them inwardly, dialogue with ourselves, get to know ourselves, educate ourselves, correct ourselves, remove falsehoods, seek truth, and restore our purest hearts.
People are born with innate purity in their hearts. However, as people grow older, under the influence of the environment and the five poisons--greed, anger, ignorance, arrogance, and skepticism, their original purity becomes increasingly polluted, resulting in all kinds of conflicts and suffering in the world. However, Heaven is merciful and has preserved a ray of hope for mankind, which is "conscience." There will be a brighter and hopeful future only when everyone's conscience is awakened and when everyone acts with conscience.
The Tai Ji Men philosophy focuses not only on the balance of yin and yang, but even more on taking actions. By correcting our actions and promoting love and peace based on our own "heart" education, we are echoing UNESCO's mission to promote international cooperation through education, science, and culture, thereby contributing to peace and security. In education, we have visited more than 300 schools to promote human rights and conscience education, and to cultivate enlightened world citizens since they were little. Tai Ji Men qigong originates from Daoism, which is the earliest form of preventive medicine. Ancient medical philosophies emphasized that first-rate doctors look after their patients’ “hearts” and place great emphasis on the body-mind balance. Viruses have ravaged the planet today, and the environment is rapidly deteriorating. Tai Ji Men Qigong helps people address the root causes of their illnesses, recover from them, and improve their physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. In terms of culture, Tai Ji Men has visited over 300 cities in 101 countries, conducting over 3,000 cultural exchanges and performances, to promote mutual understanding and tolerance between countries and between races and to unite global citizens’ hearts and foster global peace, harmony, and security.
World Philosophy Day reminds us of the importance of rational thinking, conscientious debate, and sincere practice. Daily meditation and contemplation will help individuals maintain a balanced mind, reduce mistakes, and make the right decisions in the midst of chaos. There are the so-called “calmness, tranquility, security, clear deliberation, and attainment of wisdom.” When the heart is quiet, it is clean. When the heart is clean, it is clear. When our hearts are clear, we can see through things and know what to do. This way, we are able to transcend the external disturbances, look inwards, and achieve inner freedom. Through practice, we can enrich our philosophy, surpass ourselves in the process of continuous correction and improvement, resolve problems with wisdom, overcome obstacles with love, and create a meaningful and brilliant life!
We wish for all world citizens to safeguard their conscience, do good deeds at all times, realize the truth, and lead a full and beautiful life.
*Presented at the ICDAY's virtual event in support of UN World Philosophy Day