Chongqing - On April 21, the round table forum themed "Between Land and Sea: Environmental History Research and Civilization Exchanges and Mutual Learning" was held in Chongqing.
Scholars and experts from Peking University, Sun Yat-sen University, Sichuan International Studies University (SISU), and Southwest University gathered to pool wisdom and contribute inspiring ideas on how civilization exchanges and mutual learning can be facilitated and deepened through environmental history. Regarding how Chongqing can leverage environmental history research to bridge the city with the world, iChongqing reporter interviewed professors from Peking University, Sun Yat-sen University, and SISU.
On April 21, scholars and experts shared their views at the round table forum themed "Between Land and Sea: Environmental History Research and Civilization Exchanges and Mutual Learning." (Photo/ Xuelin Mu)
Prof. Shen Hou, from the History Department of Peking University, introduced how to apply "Planetary Narrative" to civilization exchanges and mutual learning among different civilizations. She elaborated that compared to other traditional narratives, a planetary narrative addresses three perspectives: firstly, it emphasizes that we have only one planet, Earth. By recognizing the uniqueness and particularity of each nation, culture, and civilization, we have shared a common past, present, and future as a human community. Secondly, it calls our attention to the common evolution of all life forms, including human beings. Thirdly, it reveals the long history of planet Earth itself, of which our human history is only a fraction. To understand and tell the story of that fraction, we need to have a much deeper comprehension of the comprehensive history of Earth.
She said that although a narrative can't directly affect the world, it can and will impact our definition of civilization and human relationships with the rest of nature. It will generate a more ecological, holistic, and organic view.
Taking Chongqing as an example, she said that Chongqing is an ecologically and culturally unique city. It's a part of Earth, showing nature and culture's special diversity and resilience. Furthermore, it demonstrates how our civilization has learned to adapt to its special natural environment and maintain its beauty and particularity over thousands of years. To locate Chongqing in a planetary narrative is, on the one hand, to reveal the ecological and cultural connection between Chongqing and the rest of the world; on the other hand, to compare its story with different parts of the world.
Prof. Fei Sheng, deputy head of the Department of History of Sun Yat-sen University, who visited Chongqing for the first time, said he was impressed by how people living here developed such unique and up-and-down terrains into a prosperous land. It reflected people's wisdom of adapting to, transforming, and coexisting with nature.
When it came to how Chongqing could use environmental history research to connect with the world more closely, he suggested that Chongqing should use its unique and featured name cards, such as its special terrains and landforms, vegetation, and the reputation of "Eagle City." Besides unique name cards, he added that environmental protection had been a common topic capturing the international community's attention. Local experience and knowledge could inspire other regions and trigger their interest. Chongqing could share its stories of environmental protection with the world.
As a local expert on environmental history, Prof. Chen Lili from the Academy of International and Regional Studies of Sichuan International Studies University shared her view. She thought that there existed different perceptions of Chongqing between natives and outsiders, and therefore, Chongqing could promote its image and communicate with the international community based on these differences. "I believe that environmental history will be conducive to presenting a green image of a historical, ecological, and modern Chongqing. In the future, by writing Chongqing's local environmental history, for example, the history of knowledge production and exchange on nature between Chongqing and the outside world, the interaction history between local inhabitants and the environment, including mountains, rivers and forests, the outside world could know multi-dimensions of Chongqing referring to its past and present, humanity and technology, nature and ecology."
By continuing to browse our site you agree to our use of cookies, revised Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. You can change your cookie settings through your browser.
For any inquiries, please email service@ichongqing.info