Yangming Philosophy conference explores relevance in modern entrepreneurship

The 2024 Yangming Mind Philosophy Conference - Zhongtian Pavilion Forum, dedicated to exploring the essence of Yangming Philosophy and its relevance in modern entrepreneurship, was held in Yuyao, a county-level city of Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, on Oct 30.

Yuyao is the birthplace of Wang Yangming (1472-1529), one of China's leading neo-Confucian philosophers and who is best known for his doctrine of the "unity of knowing and acting". Inspired by the teachings of Yangming Philosophy, Yuyao has cultivated an entrepreneurial spirit characterized by integrity and universal benevolence.

Centered around the theme of "Yangming Philosophy and Entrepreneurial Spirit", the event focused on industrial innovation, corporate culture, and digital-intelligence development. It aimed to delve into the meaning and value of Yangming Philosophy, explore its relationship with modern entrepreneurship, and promote its preservation and development in contemporary society.

In a keynote speech titled "Empowering Corporate Culture High-Quality Development with Digital Wisdom", Yang Zhiming, former vice minister of Ministry of Human Resources and Social Securities of China, emphasized the importance of innovation in driving the development of corporate culture. He highlighted the role of digital empowerment in fostering innovation within corporate cultures, drawing inspiration from the teachings of Wang Yangming and other influential thinkers.

The event also marked the release and interpretation of the 2024 Zhejiang Top 100 Enterprise Development Report, showcasing the evolving landscape of top enterprises in the province over the past two decades. Furthermore, the gathering initiated a call for outstanding cases demonstrating the fusion of Yangming culture and corporate culture in the Yangtze River Delta region.

Yuyao's commitment to integrating Yangming culture into various industries and urban development initiatives was lauded by attendees as a driving force behind the city's modernization and vitality. From cultural landmarks like the Zhongtian Pavilion to educational institutions such as the Yaojiang Academy, Yuyao's efforts to infuse Yangming culture into local industries and tourism underscore its dedication to high-quality development empowered by cultural heritage.