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Ancient wisdom, modern questions

Scholars gathering in Athens for the second World Conference of Classics say dialogue between Greek and Chinese philosophical traditions can offer fresh perspectives on humanity's shared challenges, report Xing Yi in London and Zheng Wanyin in Athens.

Updated: 2026-06-06 10:50 ( China Daily )

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Tourists enjoy the sunset at the Parthenon on the Acropolis in Athens on Oct 27, 2025, after scaffolding installed for conservation work was removed, restoring an unobstructed view of the landmark.[Photo provided to China Daily]

When asked which state he belonged to, the great ancient philosopher Socrates is said to have replied: "I am not an Athenian, nor a Greek, but a citizen of the world." In ancient Greece, loyalty to one's city-state was extremely important, but Socrates' statement suggests a broader view, that people belong to a wider human community.