Liang Qichao’s Philosophical Thoughts and the Diversity of Contemporary Philosophy and Culture: An Analysis of Historical Influence from an Axiological Perspective

Abstract

Liang Qichao is a prominent philosopher of modernity in China who encountered historical changes and events that shaped his perspectives about nationalism and cultural identity. Our main objective is to study the evolution of Liang Qichao’s axiology and its influence on the development of modern China. A mixed methods approach was used involving textual, comparative text, and historical analyses of key terms and themes in Liang Qichao’s writings. The findings showed dynamic axiology with shifts from emphasis in national strengthening and preservation of Chinese culture to focusing on participation of citizens in national development and constitutionalism, globalism, social reforms and individual rights. Liang Qichao’s axiological framework was embraced by adaptability, balancing act between collective values and individual values, intellectual freedom and modernization of China.