Material progress

Lou Lin, a professor of classics at Sichuan University in Chengdu, Sichuan province, reflects on the role of technology in shaping the modern world.

"Strictly speaking, the modern world is largely defined by technology. It gives us the impression that humanity is constantly progressing because our material lives continue to improve," he says.

"But when it comes to complex questions such as human nature, philosophy and social order, it is difficult to argue that our understanding is deeper than that of people who lived 2,000 years ago."

Lou is particularly drawn to the ideas of French philosopher Simone Weil (1909-43). While technology and systems can help people understand the world in objective ways, Weil says, essential aspects of humanity remain beyond their reach.

"Such elements, I guess, refer to the relationship between humans and nature, a theme explored extensively in classical texts," says Lou.

One example can be found in Zhuangzi, a foundational Taoist text in ancient China. Philosopher Zhuangzi (369-286 BC) wrote: "Heaven and earth are born with me; all things are one with me." The idea emphasizes the inseparable bond between humanity and nature.

In a world where many people experience isolation and alienation, Lou believes such reflections can help balance society's heavy emphasis on technology.

"That sense of disconnection can lead to genuine inner emptiness," he says. "The reflections on human nature and humanity's relationship with nature found in classical texts remain valuable today."

Lou also recalls a story from the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279).

Philosopher Zhu Xi (1130-1200) once invited fellow thinker Lu Jiuyuan (1139-93) to lecture at the Bailudong Academy in present-day Jiangxi province. Lu highlighted the idea that "a man of virtue is guided by righteousness; a petty man, by personal gain" from The Analects (Lunyu), a compilation of the ideas of Confucius.

According to Lu, the lesson was not simply about choosing between right and wrong. Rather, it encouraged learners to clarify the purpose of their studies from the outset.

"I think this offers an important lesson for our time. In an era dominated by artificial intelligence, we still need to ask fundamental questions: What are my aspirations? What gives my life meaning? Technology alone cannot answer such questions, but classics offer valuable insights," Lou says.

He Fangying notes that concerns about technology are not unique to the modern age.

She points to a story in Homer's Epics in which Odysseus passes through the island of Scheria, where advanced technology allows fruit to ripen automatically and ships to navigate according to people's thoughts. Despite such prosperity, the kingdom declines after being punished by Poseidon, the god of the sea. The story has been interpreted as a warning against excessive reliance on technology while neglecting human virtues.

"It reminds us that while we enjoy the convenience technology brings, we should also remain aware of its potential risks," says He.