The success of entrepreneurs like Steve Jobs demonstrates that the soul of creativity lies in the combination of art and science. We should make it the guiding principle of cultural development.

Of course, the development of cultural industry should also be connected with people’s well-being and the ultimate goal of our cultural projects the improvement of people’s livelihood.

China’s 21st century revival needs to occur in both economic and cultural spheres. We should encourage and guide young people to learn the classics of Chinese philosophy, literature and art. We shouldn’t resist fast-food culture, but we should oppose using fast-food culture and popular art to marginalize classics, whose status is irreplaceable. In addition, traditional culture should also be closely integrated into daily life, not only in form, but in spirit and essence.

I agree with some foreign scholars in their assertions that China’s 21st century ascendancy will profoundly change the outlook and developmental course of the whole world. I also agree with the idea that it is outdated to hold that Chinese’s influence will only manifest itself economically.

The author is the director of the Institute for Cultural Industries, Peking University. The article was based on a speech made by Ye Lang at the 8th International Forum on Cultural Industries held at Peking University last week. 

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