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On April 17, Professor Xiangqun Chang visited GCA Fellows at the University Club at Oxford. The fellows are Professor David Parkin, Professor Robin Cohen, and Professor Maria Jaschok. In the morning, they conducted a broad range of discussions. During lunchtime, in addition to discussing work, Professor David Parkin suggested that we should also add a little living to our life. In the afternoon, Xiangqun and Maria discussed detailed work on the GCA Board of Trustees. It was a very productive day.

From left to right: Robin Cohen, David Parkin, Xiangqun Chang, and Maria Jaschok. The discussion meeting was similar to a brainstorming session. Based on incomplete audio records, the following topics were covered:

1. Transculturality:

• Definition and examples of transcultural practices.
• The concept of transculturality as a tool for understanding global dynamics beyond globalization.
• Comparison between Chinese and Western approaches to transculturality.

2. Reciprocity and Social Exchange:

• Different types of reciprocity: generalized, balanced, and negative exchange.
• The role of reciprocity in social relationships and its implications in different cultural contexts.

3. Academic Contributions and Challenges:

• The need for a Chinese school of sociology and its contributions to global social science.
• The challenges faced by Chinese academics in the global academic landscape.
• Strategies for integrating Chinese perspectives into global academic discussions.

4. Social Practices and Their Cultural Significance:

• The influence of Chinese cultural practices on social relationships and community building.
• Examples of social practices in Chinese villages and their implications for social structure.

5. Historical and Comparative Studies:

• Comparative studies on modernization in different countries.
  Historical encounters between Europe and China and their impact on cultural exchange.
• The role of Chinese academics in documenting and analyzing these historical interactions.

6. Globalization and Modernization:

• The evolution of globalization and its various forms.
  The concept of modernization in China and its comparison with Western perspectives.
• The impact of globalization on local cultures and practices.

7. Role of Chinese Women and Feminism:

• The development of Chinese feminism and its integration into global feminist discourse.
• Historical perspectives on Chinese women’s roles and contributions.

8. Networking and Collaboration:

• The importance of collaborating with similar institutions to sustain the mission of the Global China Academy.
• Potential partnerships with organizations like the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC).

9. Impact and Sustainability of the Global China Academy:

• Strategies for ensuring the sustainability of the academy.
  The role of publications and academic dialogues in promoting the academy’s mission.
• The importance of engaging younger generations in the academy’s work.

10. Fieldwork and Ethnographic Studies:

• Personal anecdotes and experiences from fieldwork in China.
• The significance of understanding local contexts and social dynamics through ethnographic research.

11. Political and Cultural Mapping:

• The role of maps in representing cultural and political relationships.
• The influence of mapping practices on understanding global connections and power dynamics.

12. Challenges of Publishing Uncensored Chinese Work:

• The difficulties in publishing authentic, uncensored academic work on China.
• The role of the Global China Academy in providing a platform for such publications.

13. Global Governance for AI:

• This is the theme of the 9th Global China Dialogue, which will take place at Tongji University in China. It is the first time the event will be held in China, and it will alternate between the UK and China in the future.
• The preparations are ongoing.

Introduction

In 2024, Professor Tony McEnery’s academic activities expanded in various ways. On the one hand, he led a team from Lancaster University to Xi’an Jiaotong University, establishing academic relations between the two universities in March. On the other hand, his influence extended from Xi’an, Zhejiang, and Shanghai to Kunming and Hong Kong where he gave conference paper and distinguished lecture respectively in April.  

Timeline 

On the 1st March, Tony McEnery from Lancaster University led a delegation to visit Xi’an Jiaotong University, discussing collaborative opportunities with the School of Foreign Studies and the International Cooperation and Exchange Office. The meeting included Professors Paul Baker, Elena Semino, and Jonathan Culpeper, along with Lei Yanjun, Deputy Director of the International Cooperation and Exchange Office, and leaders from the School of Foreign Studies at Xi’an Jiaotong University. The discussions focused on the shared goals and strategies of joint educational programs, including curriculum development and faculty training. Both sides expressed a desire to deepen the partnership based on their existing collaboration. Lancaster University is ranked 122nd in the 2024 QS World University Rankings and 10th globally in linguistics. Since 2021, the two universities have collaborated on various projects, including the Ministry of Science and Technology foreign expert program and the ‘High-End International Expert Masterclass’ series. This visit aimed to further consolidate their strategic partnership.

Source: https://news.xjtu.edu.cn/info/1005/206782.htm

Later the morning, the Foreign Language and Culture Forum at Xi’an Jiaotong University was held, featuring three primary speakers: Professor Elena Semino from Lancaster University, a Fellow of the British Academy of Social Sciences and the Royal Society of Arts, and Director of the ESRC-CASS Research Center; Professor Tony McEnery, a leading international scholar in corpus linguistics and a Distinguished Professor at Lancaster, who also serves as a guest professor at Xi’an Jiaotong University; and Vittorio Tantucci, the China Collaboration Officer for Lancaster University’s Department of Linguistics and English Language.

Professor Semino (top left) gave a lecture titled “Disease and Metaphor.” Using collected data and corpora, she demonstrated the metaphors used to describe different disease experiences and noted that the effectiveness of metaphors depends on how they are expressed. She emphasized that understanding metaphorical expressions relevant to different healthcare stakeholders is crucial for their practical application in disease treatment. Professor McEnery (top right) discussed the expression and usage of “swear words” in English dialogues from a discourse analysis perspective. He emphasized the importance of understanding the discourse structure of such forms and their effects in particular contexts. Afterward, attendees had a lively discussion with him on cultural differences in the use of this language. Dr. Tantucci (bottom left) provided an overview of Lancaster University and its Department of Linguistics and English Language, detailing its primary research areas. He also elaborated on the collaborative master’s program in English Language and Literature between Lancaster University and Xi’an Jiaotong University. 

The forum stimulated enthusiasm among attendees for linguistics, particularly data-driven linguistic research, providing a platform for students and faculty to broaden their academic horizons and gain knowledge of the latest research trends.

Source: https://sfs.xjtu.edu.cn/info/1244/7284.htm

In the afternoon, the ‘Foreign Language and Culture Forum’ organized by the School of Foreign Studies was successfully held. The forum featured Professor Jonathan Culpeper, head of the Department of Linguistics and English Language (LAEL) at Lancaster University, Paul Baker, professor at Lancaster University and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and the British Academy of Social Sciences, and Raffaella Bottini, the Internationalization Director of LAEL. The event was chaired by Vice Dean Cheng Bing and was attended by over a hundred students and faculty members.

This forum combined themed lectures with audience Q&A. Professor Culpeper (top left) delivered a lecture titled ‘Linguistic (Im)politeness and Reciprocity,’ focusing on communication etiquette in daily life. Using numerous examples, he vividly illustrated the differences between polite and impolite language, offering a detailed analysis of the linguistic principles and communication psychology involved. He paid special attention to patterns of conversational reciprocity, revealing politeness strategies and cultural variations. Professor Baker’s lecture (top right), titled “Corpus-Based Discourse Analysis,” explained the application of corpus analysis in linguistic research. He provided many examples demonstrating the unique value of corpus analysis techniques in exploring language usage patterns and uncovering societal and cognitive trends. This sparked interest among attendees in linguistic research methods. Finally, Director Bottini (bottom left) introduced the collaborative exchange program between Xi’an Jiaotong University and Lancaster University. This program offers a broad platform for faculty and students from both universities to collaborate, fostering in-depth academic and educational interactions while supporting international development.

The Foreign Language and Culture Forum not only provided new academic insights but also built an important bridge between Xi’an Jiaotong University and Lancaster University. The academic discussions and program introduction broadened the international outlook of attendees and promoted cross-cultural exchange and understanding. This has injected new vitality and momentum into collaboration between the two universities in education and research. Future cooperation between Xi’an Jiaotong University and Lancaster University is expected to deepen, promoting the development and prosperity of international education.

Source: https://sfs.xjtu.edu.cn/info/1244/7285.htm

On the 4th March, Professors Tony McEnery and Paul Baker from Lancaster University delivered lectures at at the School of Foreign Studies, Zhejiang Gongshang University.

Professor McEnery (top left), a renowned expert in corpus linguistics, focuses his research on applying corpora, contributing significantly to sociolinguistics, pragmatics, discourse studies, comparative linguistics, translation, and language teaching. His lecture entitled ‘Swearing, Discourse, and Function in Conversational British English’. He began by introducing academic concepts such as ‘macrostructure’ and ‘microstructure’ in discourse and critiqued existing research flaws concerning swearing and macro discourse structures. Building on this, he outlined the core theme of his lecture. Throughout the lecture, Professor McEnery demonstrated methods and approaches for analyzing swearing using corpora, covering the selection of research data, annotation of natural data, and data analysis and interpretation. He provided in-depth explanations about annotating spoken data, discourse units and functions in swearing analysis, and sequential structures of swearing within macro-narrative structures, sparking reflection and discussion. Lastly, he engaged with the audience on questions like ‘How to handle coding ambiguities?’ His patient and detailed answers benefited everyone greatly. 

Professor Baker (top right) gave a keynote speech titled ‘An Overview of Corpus-Based Discourse Analysis.’ The report first emphasized the importance of language in shaping positions, representing identities, and conveying evaluations. He pointed out that analyzing large-scale language data can reveal the cumulative effects of language, leading to his proposed “Corpus-Assisted Discourse Studies” (CADS) approach and introducing the “description-interpretation-explanation-evaluation” research paradigm. In his lecture, Professor Baker highlighted the value of this research approach with four case studies: the image of bachelors in British media, the debate in the British Parliament on fox hunting, patient feedback in the UK’s National Health Service, and British news media’s coverage of obesity. These studies demonstrate the significant value of corpus research methods in helping linguists gain insights into discourse and society and fostering collaboration with other disciplines.

They were chaired by Professor Qian Yufang (bottom right), the lecture attracted many young faculty members, doctoral students, and master’s students who participated and exchanged ideas. The lively and academically rich atmosphere left a strong impression.

From March 5 to 7, Professor Baker conducted a three-day workshop on ‘Corpus-Based Discourse Analysis’ for the faculty and students of the School of Foreign Studies. The first session discussed ‘Visual Analysis of an Obesity News Corpus,’ primarily focusing on analyzing the interaction between textual and visual elements in The Daily Express’s coverage of obesity. The second session explored ‘Sociological Analysis of Language and Gender in a Spoken Corpus.’ The third workshop centered on ‘Corpus Analysis of Patient Feedback,’ aiming to understand patient feedback in the UK’s National Health Service. The fourth workshop addressed “Keywords in News Corpora.” The workshops were chaired by Professors Li Wenzhong and Pu Jianzhong.

This academic event attracted many faculty members and students, including university staff and undergraduates, master’s students, and PhD. candidates at various stages. The event was fully attended, creating a strong academic atmosphere. The Q&A sessions were especially lively, with attendees asking questions and engaging in discussions. Participants found the experience invaluable, gaining a solid understanding of key corpus discourse research methods and recognizing the importance of choosing research topics, clarifying research questions, collecting data, and determining research approaches

Sources:  https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/yay61_sACX38bDR4bmPs7Q and https://sky.zjgsu.edu.cn/2024/0402/c2108a169400/page.htm

On the 5th of March, as an Advisory Professor (2023-2026) at Shanghai International Studies University (SISU), Professor Tony McEnery delivered a lecture at the Institute of Corpus Studies and Applications at SISU. The lecture, titled ‘Swearing, Discourse, and Function in Conversational British English,’ examined the role of macrostructures in the study of swearing. While macrostructures have been studied in isolation, they have not yet been comprehensively analyzed, and the range of those studied is limited. In contrast, research on microstructures is better developed. Using spoken corpus data from BNC2014, the lecture presented two approaches to studying discourse. The first approach explored spoken data annotated with a functional discourse coding scheme that reveals the distribution of a set of macrostructures (discourse units) that generally characterize conversation. The goal was to observe how swearing is distributed according to discourse unit function and explain any patterns identified. The second approach focused on a single macrostructure of discourse—narrative—and its sub-elements, to determine whether swearing interacts with this macrostructure and its components. The lecture concluded by emphasizing the importance of discourse as a dimension along which the use of swearing can vary, likely in relation to emotion. The complementary perspectives on macrostructure discussed in the lecture further underscore this point.

Sources: https://corpus.shisu.edu.cn/corpusen/ae/dd/c12945a175837/page.htm and https://corpus.shisu.edu.cn/bd/7d/c10015a179581/page.htm  

On the 22nd April, Professor Tony McEnery presented paper on ‘Corpus-based View on News Media Representation of Slavery in the 19th Century Britain’ at An International Conference on Brain, Language, and Communication, Kunming, 22-23 April 2024. It was co-organised by School of Journalism (College of International Communication of South and Southeast Asia), Yunnan University, Subcommittee of Journalism and Communication, the South and Southeast Asian University Network, and the Halliday Centre for Intelligent Applications of Language Studies, City University of Hong Kong, in partnership with Yunnan Key Laboratory of Media Convergence.

This conference is organized on the theme of brain, language, and communication. It is motivated by the latest consensus that the interdisciplinary collaboration across the three will generate synergies to enable the sustained growth and development of communication studies and linguistic research, particularly for corpus-based approaches and neurolinguistics. This collaboration is also timely, in response to the latest development in artificial intelligence as well as the initiatives in Nuralink implant research that highlight the interaction across the three important subjects. The event brings together some of the internationally outstanding scholars in linguistics, media communication and data science on their cutting-edge research in the cross-feeding between language, communication, the understanding of the human mind and their statistical models. The conference therefore showcases some of the most recent developments in research topics, methodologies and findings in the relevant areas.

Source: https://hallidaycentre.cityu.edu.hk/12_Kunming_2024.html 

On the 26th April, Professor Tony McEnery met with Prof Alex Fang (方稱宇), Director of  the Halliday Centre for Intelligent Applications of Language Studies, City University of Hong Kong. They discussed matters related to joint collaborations and dearly remembered those whom they knew in common, including Prof Sidney Greenbaum at UCL, Shichun Gui at Guangdong University of Foreign Studies, Michael Halliday at Sydney and Geoffrey Leech at Lancaster, who inspired them immensely in their corpus-based approaches to language. The Computational Analysis of English (Longman 1987) given by Geoff to Tony and by Shichun to Alex prompted both of them into computational experiments on corpus data using programming languages such as LISP and Prolog.

Source: https://hallidaycentre.cityu.edu.hk/08_news.html

On April 30th, Professor Tony McEnery delivered a Distinguished Lecture in Humanities: ‘AI, Ethics, and the Humanities in the UK,’ at the Faculty of Humanities, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU). The lecture surveyed the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI), ethics, and the humanities in the UK. It integrated insights from bibliometric analyses, interviews with various stakeholders, and reviews of existing research infrastructure and policies. The talk examined the current state of AI ethics research in the UK, identifying the contributions of the arts and humanities, the obstacles researchers face, and the potential impacts of their work. It also considered the international research environment and strategic investments made by other countries in AI and ethics, drawing comparisons with the UK’s approach. Opportunities and threats were identified in the contexts of academia, public perception, and commerce, including the impacts of AI on diverse populations and industries. The talk concluded by comparing the situation in the UK with that in Hong Kong.

Sources: https://www.polyu.edu.hk/events/2024/4/0430_distinguished-lectures-in-humanities and https://www.polyu.edu.hk/fh/news-and-events/event/2024/4/dlh_20240430 

• Click here to view Global China Academy Council Chair Professor Tony McEnery’s Academic Activities in China, September-November 2023.
• Click here to view Global China Academy Council Chair Professor Tony McEnery’s Academic Activities in China, April-May 2023.
• Click here to visit Professor Tony McEnery FGCA page.
• Click here to visit News section. 

There were three types of events that happened in March. They are: participating in the London Book Fair, which is one of two major events for GCA and GCP; the GCA Council and Chinese Council meetings; and GCA team activities.

Note: The text on this page is to be updated.

10 March

12th March

13 March

14th March

Introduction

In mid to late March, Professor Carsten Herrmann-Pillath from Germany visited Shenzhen, China. He represented the University of Erfurt in signing a carbon neutrality strategic agreement with a Chinese university, research institution, and enterprises. He also visited Jintian Elementary School to observe its green and low-carbon practices and participated in the international symposium ‘Nature-based Solutions (NbS 2.0)’ hosted by the China (Shenzhen) Comprehensive Development Institute.

Timeline 

In recent years, green sustainable development has become a global focus. From integrating carbon emission standards and addressing international carbon barriers to corporate ESG and product carbon footprints, these factors influence national strategies for carbon neutrality and peak carbon emissions. To deepen international cooperation and build an integrated ecosystem of industry, academia, and research, the Zero Carbon Industry Operations Center (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., CNOOC, the University of Erfurt in Germany, Harbin Institute of Technology, and the China Development Institute (Shenzhen) have reached a strategic partnership. Professor Carsten Herrmann-Pillath from the University of Erfurt signed the cooperation agreement, aiming to enhance green and low-carbon industrial development through Sino-European standards and technological innovation cooperation.

On the 18th March, Professor Herrmann-Pillath, accompanied by Director Liu Yu and professors from Harbin Institute of Technology, visited the near-zero carbon campus project at Jintian Elementary School. This project, provided by the Zero Carbon Industry Operations Center, includes design, implementation, platform development, and a dual-carbon education system, making it a ‘Shenzhen City Green and Low-Carbon Scene Demonstration Base.’ Experts were impressed with Jintian Elementary School’s low-carbon practices, recognizing its globally exemplary model of integrating production and education.

Professor Herrmann-Pillath was deeply impressed by Jintian Elementary School’s low-carbon practices. Not only has the school upgraded its hardware to be more environmentally friendly and established a carbon emission management system, but it has also introduced dual-carbon education to the students, which aligns with the core essence of education. From practical demonstrations to theoretical knowledge cultivation and subtle influence in daily life, this integration of industry and education forms a collaborative community for green sustainable development. This advanced and exemplary approach has global significance.

After the visit, experts learned about the achievements of the Zero Carbon Industry Operations Center in assisting enterprises with green low-carbon transitions. The center’s ‘Zero Tan Cloud’ platform, focused on carbon calculation, management, reduction, and elimination, has developed one-stop service capabilities and participated in setting various standards.

In 2022, the Zero Carbon Industry Operations Center and the Longhua District Government established Shenzhen’s first dual-carbon industry public service platform. Professor Herrmann-Pillath praised this innovative and advanced model, expressing his pleasure in becoming the first international expert in the dual-carbon expert pool.

Experts also discussed ESG, EU carbon tariffs, and Amazon Climate Pledge certifications, planning to conduct broader and deeper cooperation from a global perspective in the future.

Source: https://www.dutenews.com/n/article/8056146?from=app&client=1&trace_id=338985778801188&t=1710846370&t=1710850274&t=1710858140&t=1710858370&t=1710858713

On the 19th March, 2024, the China (Shenzhen) Comprehensive Development Institute hosted an international symposium titled ‘Nature-based Solutions (NbS 2.0).’ Professor Carsten Herrmann-Pillath from the Max Weber Centre for Advanced Cultural and Social Studies at the University of Erfurt in Germany delivered the keynote speech on ‘Nature-based Solutions 2.0: Designing Biodiverse Cities.’ Experts and scholars from Tencent, the Shenzhen Municipal Policy Research Office, the Shenzhen Municipal Bureau of Ecology and Environment, Shenzhen University, and other institutions participated in the seminar to share new theories and practices in urban ecological civilization construction.

Nature-based Solutions (NbS) involve actions that protect, sustainably manage, and restore ecosystems to address societal, economic, and environmental challenges. Since being proposed by the World Bank in 2008, NbS has been increasingly applied to climate change, disaster risk reduction, food security, water security, ecosystem degradation, and biodiversity loss. In the context of building a Beautiful China, a significant theoretical and practical issue is how the cities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area can develop a new relationship between humans, nature, and society, promoting the coordinated development of ecology, society, economy, and culture.

Professor Herrmann-Pillath pointed out that NbS is an effective solution to climate change challenges, with biodiversity being the key. Cities play a crucial role in addressing biodiversity loss, despite emitting over 75% of global CO2. Designing biodiverse cities is essential, as emphasized in a recent World Economic Forum report, which suggests that cities should become places where nature thrives. This concept is gaining popularity in Europe, with initiatives such as the biodiversity city tour in northern Italy and the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Urban Nature Index, which assesses cities’ support for biodiversity. Professor Herrmann-Pillath also discussed the practice of NbS in China, such as sponge city construction, and introduced Shenzhen’s Bao’an District Shanghe Park project, highlighting the importance of rewilding cities. He noted that Singapore leads globally, with 29.3% of its urban space covered by trees, providing more space for nature to evolve autonomously.  Finally, Professor Herrmann-Pillath called for a fundamental change in our way of life to address future ecological challenges. He advocated for recognizing the rights of nature, respecting its freedom to evolve, and making nature a significant player in our ecosystems. This approach aims to create cities that are shared and mutually beneficial for both humans and non-humans, ushering in a new era of ecological and biocentric rights.

At the symposium, Wanda emphasized the significance of ecological civilization, biodiversity, and green development for China’s modernization, highlighting the need for strong protection measures to drive high-quality development. Zhai Yongping urged focusing on biodiversity loss and changing economic frameworks to balance profit with ecological preservation. He noted Tencent’s philanthropic support for new technologies but emphasized the need for broader collaboration. Huang Duobin shared Shenzhen’s Nature-based Solutions (NbS) experiences, including pollution control, low-carbon development, human-nature harmony, and valuing marine ecological products. Liu Chang highlighted Shenzhen’s proactive climate adaptation efforts, integrating goals into urban planning, developing monitoring systems, and promoting green infrastructure. Wu Wenyuan discussed integrating human life with natural rhythms in urban design and emphasized the need for management changes to implement NbS.

Professor Yuan Yiming discussed the development-ecology relationship, driving mechanisms for ecological progress, and the importance of institutional innovation, praising Shenzhen’s collaborative success. Liu Yu concluded by emphasizing global NbS exploration, proposing integrated climate and biodiversity solutions, and thanking participants for their insights.

Source:  https://new.qq.com/rain/a/20240321A063D300

• Click here to visit Professor Carsten Herrmann-Pillath FGCA page.
• Click here to visit News section. 

Introduction

In mid to late March, Professor Carsten Herrmann-Pillath from Germany visited Shenzhen, China. He represented the University of Erfurt in signing a carbon neutrality strategic agreement with a Chinese university, research institution, and enterprises. He also visited Jintian Elementary School to observe its green and low-carbon practices and participated in the international symposium ‘Nature-based Solutions (NbS 2.0)’ hosted by the China (Shenzhen) Comprehensive Development Institute.

After the intensive preparations and the successful hosting of the 8th Global China Dialogue and the 10th anniversary celebration of the Global China Academy, we decided to schedule the team-building activities for early February 2024.  Our team consists of the following members: Xiangqun Chang (GCA President), Alan Fang (Legal Adviser), Katie Zheng (Administrative Manager), David Liu (Domestic Manager), LI Li, and Xi Shen (GCA8 Volunteers).

The first day of GCA’s two-day team-building event was scheduled for February 3rd, a time when people usually look forward to Chinese New Year celebrations. However, our team of six broke with convention and chose The Real Greek in Covent Garden for a culinary exploration. The restaurant was adorned with delicate flowers, adding a touch of Greek aesthetic that is quite different from the bold reds and golds of Chinese celebrations. The Mediterranean ambiance provided a fresh contrast to the red lanterns and decorations typical of Chinese New Year. The food was presented on tiered trays, a vibrant arrangement that stood in contrast to the communal style of Chinese dining where dishes are usually placed in the center of the table for everyone to share.

We ordered Greek Flatbread and Crudités, as well as a variety of dishes including Yellow Fava, Hummus, Tzatziki, Spicy Feta Dip (Htipiti), Melitzanosalata, Chicken Skewer, Loukaniko Beef & Pork Sausage Skewer, Pork Skewer, Halloumi & Vegetable Skewer, Lamb Meatballs, Gigandes with Spinach, Falafel, Grilled Aubergine, Vegan Meatballs, along with shared sides such as Mediterranean Rice, Aegean Slaw, Chips, Pourgouri – Bulgur Wheat, New Potatoes, and Greek Salad. For dessert, we shared Baklava, Orange Cake, and Greek Yogurt with walnuts in syrup.

The flavours of these dishes were diverse and rich, ranging from the refreshing tzatziki to the mildly spicy feta cheese dip, each bite filled with surprise. The smoky taste of the grilled aubergine offered a contrast to the commonly sweet and spicy flavours found in Chinese cuisine, while the falafel, with its crunchy exterior and soft interior coupled with a deep spice flavour, presented a completely different taste from traditional Chinese spring rolls. The various skewers we provided, including chicken, mixed meat sausage, pork, and halloumi cheese with vegetable skewers, were similar to Chinese lamb, grilled fish, and beef skewers, all involving grilling meat or other ingredients on bamboo or metal sticks. However, Greek skewers emphasized the use of herbs and olive oil in their flavours, while Chinese barbecue tends to favour seasonings like cumin and chili to enhance the flavour. The Mediterranean rice and Greek salad brought a refreshing taste that was a sharp contrast to the familiar Chinese rice and mixed vegetable dishes. The sweetness of the baklava and the soft, fluffy texture of the orange cake were delightful complements to Chinese festive sweets.

Through these various flavours and styles, our team not only enjoyed the unique charm of Greek cuisine but also deepened our understanding and appreciation of the differences between Western and Chinese culinary cultures. This visual and culinary journey not only provided a necessary break from our hard work in preparing for both the 8th GCD and 10th anniversary of GCA but also acted as a cultural bridge, connecting our team with the diverse traditions of the world. The shared Greek Flatbread and Crudités, the variety of dips and skewers, and the assortment of sides and desserts provided a communal experience that, although different in presentation, reflected the collective joy found in Chinese dining traditions. This experience was both a cultural immersion and a testament to the universal language of food in bringing people together.

After enjoying a Greek dinner, our team went to the Royal Opera House to watch the ballet Manon. The Royal Opera House, located in London’s Covent Garden, is one of the world’s leading opera houses, renowned for its outstanding opera and ballet performances. It serves as the home of The Royal Opera, The Royal Ballet, and the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House. The building itself is a masterpiece of Victorian architecture, featuring a magnificent auditorium, luxurious public spaces, and state-of-the-art stage facilities. Its history dates back to the 18th century, making it a historic landmark and cultural icon in the UK. Manon is a three-act ballet created by Kenneth MacMillan, with music by Jules Massenet. It premiered by The Royal Ballet in London in 1974. The ballet is based on the 1731 novel The Story of the Chevalier des Grieux and Manon Lescaut by Abbé Prévost. It tells the story of the young and naive Manon who falls in love with the Chevalier des Grieux but is persuaded by her brother to leave him for the wealthier Monsieur GM. The ballet is known for its expressive choreography, emotional depth, and beautiful music, showcasing the talent and technical skills of its dancers. Manon and the Royal Opera House represent the pinnacle of Western classical performing arts, focusing on storytelling through dance, music, and set design.

In contrast, the Chinese equivalent in the realm of traditional performing arts can be considered Peking Opera or Kunqu Opera. Peking Opera and Kunqu Opera embody the essence of Eastern performing arts traditions, emphasizing vocal performance, poetic dialogue, and symbolic gestures. The main difference lies in the cultural expressions and artistic mediums used to convey stories and emotions. Western ballets like Manon typically use the universal language of dance to narrate stories, while Chinese operas incorporate a more integrated approach, combining singing, acting, and martial arts to express complex narratives and characters. However, both offer deep insights into their respective cultures and traditions, showcasing the universal appeal of storytelling through performing arts. Peking Opera is one of the most famous traditional Chinese theater arts, characterized by its unique combination of song, spoken dialogue, and codified action sequences, including gestures, movement, fighting, and acrobatics. It is known for its elaborate costumes, makeup, and the distinctive vocal style of its performers. Kunqu Opera is considered one of the oldest forms of Chinese opera, celebrated for its elegant movements, refined music, and literary excellence. Both forms of Chinese opera have deep historical roots and play a significant role in China’s cultural heritage, similar to the role of ballet and opera in Western cultures.

After watching Manon at the Royal Opera House, we were deeply moved and filled with a sense of appreciation and emotion. The performance in one of the most prestigious classical art venues was an unforgettable experience that resonated with us deeply. The dancers’ exquisite skills, coupled with the thrilling music and the poignant narrative of love and tragedy, transported us into the world of Manon and Des Grieux, allowing us to experience their joy, love, and despair firsthand. The choreography’s blend of classical ballet with richly expressive dramatic movements captured the complex emotions of the characters and the dramatic turns of the story. The grandeur of the Royal Opera House and the production’s lavish costumes and sets added an extra layer of enchantment to the evening, making us feel as though we were part of the opulent world depicted on stage.

This experience was not only an artistic delight but also a cultural enrichment, reminding us of the power of performing arts to evoke deep feelings and connect with audiences profoundly. As we left the opera house, we were in awe of the talent and hard work of the performers and creative team, yet also left with a lingering melancholy from the ballet’s tragic ending. Most importantly, we were grateful for the opportunity to witness such a masterful ballet display, which entertained and emotionally moved us, leaving a lasting impression on our hearts and minds.

Day two, February 4th, our team visited Brocket Hall. We had the privilege of being accompanied by Dr Frances Wood, a historian and sinologist who previously served as the curator of the Chinese Collection at the British Library and is a trustee of the Global China Academy, as well as Dr James Lin, the curator of the Asian art collection at the Fitzwilliam Museum, University of Cambridge. Guided by their knowledge and insights, we toured almost every room in the estate, closely examining the furniture, paintings, and various collections. Afterwards, we walked through the lush fields, beside the lake and trees along the bridge.

Brocket Hall, located in Hertfordshire, England, is a classic English country house with centuries of history. The architecture of Brocket Hall is an excellent example of the Palladian style, characterized by symmetry, classical forms, and grand scale. The interior of the estate is equally impressive, with elegantly decorated rooms reflecting the era’s grace and luxury. This magnificent estate was once the residence of two British Prime Ministers, Lord Melbourne and Lord Palmerston, marking it as a site of significant historical and political importance. We explored almost every room, such as the bedroom of Queen Victoria, Lord Melbourne, Lady Melbourne, Lord Palmerston, Lady Palmerston, with each room narrating the stories of its past occupants and their times. Brocket Hall is renowned for its stunning architecture, extensive grounds, and its role in British social and political history.

Lord Palmerston served as the British Prime Minister during the First Opium War and was the Foreign Secretary at that time, playing a significant role in initiating and managing the conflict. He supported the use of force to protect Britain’s opium trade interests and advocated for a tough stance against China, leading to the outbreak of the conflict. The war ended with China’s defeat and the signing of the Treaty of Nanjing, which forced China to cede Hong Kong to Britain and open several trading ports, having a long-term negative impact on China. Palmerston’s policies expanded Britain’s global influence but also marked the beginning of a humiliating period in modern Chinese history, having profound effects on both China and world history.

The gardens of the estate are a testament to the British tradition of landscape gardening, featuring expansive fields, neatly trimmed lawns, and mature trees, all set against the backdrop of picturesque lakes and bridges. This landscape provides a tranquil and pastoral setting where one can enjoy leisurely strolls and the natural beauty of the English countryside. This land and lake later became home to two golf courses, named after Lord Melbourne and Lord Palmerston, the two British Prime Ministers.

The horticulture and history of Brocket Hall can be compared to those of classical Chinese estates, which are typically designed according to Feng Shui principles to harmoniously integrate architecture, gardens, and water elements. Similar to Brocket Hall, these estates were once residences of high-ranking officials and centers of cultural and political activity. Classical Chinese gardens, such as those in Suzhou, are famous for their intricate designs that include pavilions, ponds, rockeries, and meticulously arranged plants, creating serene landscapes that reflect the philosophical and aesthetic ideals of traditional Chinese culture.

Brocket Hall embodies the heritage of English country estates, symbolizing political history and architectural beauty, while China’s classical estates represent the Eastern philosophy of harmony between man and nature, showcasing the art of garden design and the integration of indoor and outdoor spaces. Both traditions provide us with a window into their respective cultures, emphasizing the importance of history, nature, and architecture in shaping the identity and legacy of these remarkable estates.

During our visit to Brocket Hall, we deeply felt the profoundness of British history and the significant role these historical figures and locations played in world history. The explanations provided by Dr Frances Wood and Dr James Lin not only gave us a deeper understanding of the Hall’s history and architectural style but also offered a comprehensive view of Lord Palmerston’s role in the First Opium War and its impact on Sino-British relations. This journey was not only a visual and intellectual pleasure but also an opportunity for deep reflection and understanding of past events.

The natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere of the estate momentarily took us away from the hustle and bustle of modern life, as if we were transported back to an era filled with historical stories. Walking through the expansive fields and beside the lake, we couldn’t help but ponder the course of history and how it has shaped today’s world.

This visit not only broadened our horizons but also deepened our understanding of the complexities of historical exchanges between China and Britain. Such cross-cultural learning and exchange are invaluable, encouraging us to cherish our own cultural heritage while remaining open and respectful towards other cultures. The trip to Brocket Hall was an unforgettable experience, offering new insights and appreciation for the power of history and the beauty of natural landscapes.

Finally, after enjoying a buffet meal at the nearby Chinese restaurant, ‘The Real China,’ we noticed an interesting phenomenon: although the restaurant’s name sounds very Chinese and mainly serves Chinese cuisine, we couldn’t find its Chinese name. Additionally, we noticed that all the staff were Indian, and it’s said that the restaurant’s owner is Chinese. This unexpected discovery added a layer of multicultural richness to our experience. It reminded us of the global nature of cuisine and culture, how food can transcend geographical and cultural boundaries to bring diverse people together.

Our team-building activity began at a restaurant named ‘The Real Greek’ and concluded at one named ‘The Real China,’ a coincidence that carries several interesting meanings or symbolic significances, adding intriguing implications to the event, such as:

• Cultural Diversity and Inclusion: The journey from a Greek to a Chinese restaurant showcases respect and appreciation for different cultures (Měirén zhīměi 美人之美 in Fei Xiaotong’s words). This may indicate that our team or organization values diversity and inclusion, willing to explore and celebrate various cultural traditions.
• A Journey from West to East: From a cultural and geographical perspective, Greece is often seen as the cradle of Western civilization, while China represents Eastern culture. The arrangement from ‘Real Greek’ to ‘Real China’ might symbolize a cultural journey from the West to the East (The mini ‘Journey to the East’ in the opposite direction of Journey to the West 与《西游记》反向的迷你“东游记”), reflecting a broad exploration of global cultural heritage.
• Exploration and Connection: Starting and ending our activity in two different but equally ‘real’ cultural venues might mean that our team values deep exploration and establishing cross-cultural connections. This experience could encourage team members to be open-minded, learning to appreciate different lifestyles and traditions (again, Měirén zhīměi 美人之美, in Fei Xiaotong’s words).
• A Culinary Journey: From a culinary standpoint, this arrangement offers a taste journey from Greek to Chinese cuisine. This not only allows team members to enjoy a diverse food experience but may also symbolize the team’s willingness to try new things and explore the unknown (Further Měirén zhīměi 美人之美, in Fei Xiaotong’s words). 
• Symbolic Beginning and Ending: starting with ‘Real Greek’ and end with ‘Real China’ might have its symbolic meaning, such as beginning with the enlightenment of one culture and concluding with the wisdom of another, representing a complete cycle of growth or learning (To achieve understanding of ‘shared beauty’ Měiměi yugòng 美美与共, in Fei Xiaotong’s words). 

Over two days of enriching team-building activities, our team grew not only closer to each other but also became more connected to the broad spectrum of global culture. The delicious dishes from our visits to ‘The Real Greek’ and ‘The Real China’ provided a perfect culmination to our journey, deepening our understanding of history and culture while bolstering camaraderie and satisfaction within the team. These shared experiences undoubtedly brought us closer, enriching our collective memory and fostering a greater appreciation for the diverse cultural heritage we were privileged to explore. Visiting ‘The Real China’ highlighted the beauty of transcultural encounters and opened up possibilities for appreciating the world’s diversity in unexpected ways.

Notes: Later, we met the owner of Real China and learned about some of the reforms the restaurant implemented in response to changes in clientele and staff due to the pandemic. The following is an excerpt from our sixth walking-chatting-eating route (https://globalchinaacademy.org/six-walk-talk-routes-tea-lunch-gca-centre/)

The Real China Restaurant is a chain of oriental buffet restaurants in the UK. It provides over 50 freshly prepared speciality dishes from Sezchuan, Chinese, Cantonese to Sushi and more. The modern and contemporary design of the restaurant and bar creates a great environment to dine and enjoy a cocktail with family and friends.

The Real China Restaurant at the Galleria Outlet Shopping Centre in Hatfield has undergone some reforms:

• The health and safety of customers and staff is the top priority. The floor space has been trained and redesigned to comply with current health and safety requirements.
• There is excitement about introducing the new ‘Table service buffet,’ where dishes can be ordered contactlessly using a QR code, with food delivered directly to tables.
• A new extensive menu offers more choices, with each dish freshly prepared, yet maintains the traditional Chinese buffet experience, allowing unlimited orders.

Other related events

Left photo was taken on February 10th when Dr. Frances Wood signed a copy of her book Betrayed Ally: China in the Great War for Professor Xiangqun Chang. Afterwards, they enjoyed the GCA Centre’s ‘Walk and Talk’ Route 4 on Chinese New Year Day. Coincidentally, Dr. Wood brought lily flowers and a fine China mug with William Morris’s design. He was a British textile designer, poet, artist, writer, and socialist activist associated with the British Arts and Crafts movement in the 19th century. The flowers brought by LI Li from Cambridge were placed at the end of the table near the window, which had more varieties.

The right photo shows the mug and plate were displayed at the GCA Centre. Both are masterpieces of decorative art, each carrying the uniqueness of its culture and history. The mug’s colors are relatively soft, dominated by greens and yellows, complemented by delicate floral patterns. In contrast, the Canton enamel plate is more vibrant, using a variety of colors, including pink, green, yellow, and blue. William Morris’s designs are typically representative of the British Arts and Crafts movement of the late 19th century, characterized by complex natural patterns, symmetry, and repetitive botanical motifs. The Canton enamel plate reflects the artistic style of the Thirteen Hongs period in Guangdong Province, China, famous for its rich colors, complex landscapes, and symmetrical decorations. The mug might be a product of industrial pattern printing, whereas the making of the Canton enamel plate might be more complex, involving multiple firings and hand painting. The mug is a daily use item for drinking liquids; the Canton enamel plate is more likely a decorative piece or a vessel for special occasions. William Morris’s designs reflect the socio-cultural background of late 19th-century Britain, emphasizing craftsmanship and anti-industrialization. The Canton enamel plate reflects the trade prosperity and cultural exchanges of Guangdong Province during the Thirteen Hongs period.

During the Chinese New Year period, GCA received some visitors who expressed willingness to support GCA voluntarily in different ways. DOU Qing and her son from Macao (left photo), and Dr. William Zhengdong Hu (right photo), Fellow of The Sociological Review, discussed a broad range of topics within and beyond disciplinary and cross fields.

In a generous contribution to the academic community, Professor Robin Cohen, a Life Fellow of the Global China Academy (FGCA), has donated an invaluable collection of ten academic books to the GCA library. This significant donation highlights Professor Cohen’s dedication to enhancing education and advancing sociological knowledge through global and regional perspectives.

These books, cover various topics, offering insights into global migration, cultural diversity, and the dynamics of international relations. The collection features influential works edited or authored by Robin Cohen and others, encompassing diverse topics in sociology and political science:

1. Modernities in Northeast Asia (2024), edited by Jun-Hyeok Kwak and Ken Cheng, provides a transformative view of modernity through the lens of Northeast Asian intellectual and political movements, challenging Western-centric perspectives.
2. Global Diasporas: An Introduction (2022) by Robin Cohen, in its 25th anniversary edition, explores the concept of diaspora through case studies of Jewish, Armenian, African, and other diasporas, offering comprehensive guidance for students and scholars.
3. Mandela-wash and other essays (2022) by Robin Cohen, is a collection of essays addressing contemporary topics such as vaccine rollouts, electoral reform, and citizenship.
4. Refugia: Radical Solutions to Mass Displacement (2020) by Robin Cohen and Nicholas Van Hear, proposes innovative solutions to mass displacement.
5. Migration: The Movement of Humankind from Prehistory to the Present (2019) by Robin Cohen, examines various types of migration throughout history.
6. Diasporas Reimagined: Spaces, Practices and Belonging (2015), edited by Nando Sigona, Alan Gamlen, Giulia Liberatore, and Hélène Neveu Kringelbach, is a collection of essays from the Oxford Diasporas Programme.
7. Migration and its Enemies: Global Capital, Migrant Labour and the Nation-State (2006) by Robin Cohen, explores the interplay between global capital, migrant labor, and national politics.
8. Conceiving Cosmopolitanism: Theory, Context, and Practice (2003), edited by Steven Vertovec and Robin Cohen, is a compilation of essays on cosmopolitanism.
9. Frontiers of Identity: The British and the Others (1994) by Robin Cohen examines British national identity.
10. International Labour and the Third World: The Making of a New Working Class (1987), edited by Rosalind E. Boyd, Robin Cohen, and Peter C. W. Gutkind, discusses the international role of the working class.

Professor Cohen’s donation timed perfectly for the GCA, as the institution continues to expand its resources to support research and learning in sociology and related disciplines. The new additions to the library will be invaluable resources for GCA Fellows, researchers and students, facilitating a deeper understanding of the complex social issues shaping the modern world.

The GCA plans to hold a small ceremony session during the 10th GCA dinner on 8th December to acknowledge Professor Cohen’s contribution. Although the books were not present at the House of Lords for the dinner, the GCA’s website records Professor Cohen’s benevolence and ongoing support for academic excellence. Professor Xiangqun Chang, President of the GCA, expressed profound gratitude for this donation, noting it as an investment in knowledge and future research, particularly in global and comparative perspectives.

Appendixes

1. In addition to the aforementioned books, Global Sociology (2017, 2012, 2000) by Robin Cohen and Paul Kennedy is a well-known textbook worldwide. Following the 1st edition, the Chinese edition 《全球社会学》was published in 2001, translated by Wen Jun 文军. It has been introduced to the Chinese academic community as a landmark work：

• creatively integrates existing theoretical traditions in sociology with emerging research perspectives, strongly focusing on contemporary issues and the dynamics of social change.
• offers a highly promising and inspiring new perspective for sociological research, especially in terms of sociological theory and methods. Through a detailed examination of global viewpoints and paradigms, it vividly reiterates the value and vision of sociology in understanding the complex and rapidly changing world in which we live.

Contrastingly, it’s worth mentioning another book, Global Sociology: Analysis of Transnational Phenomena (2006), by Jiaming Sun of Texas A&M University-Commerce and Xun Wang of University of Wisconsin-Parkside, in the USA. This book is only available in Chinese （《全球社会学: 跨国界现象的分析》, 孙嘉明  王勋 著）.  It consists of eight chapters covering topics such as formation of global society and global sociology, major theories and schools of global social studies, economic globalization, global social environment, etc

2. News at University of Oxford website: A Fellow for Life: https://www.kellogg.ox.ac.uk/news/a-fellow-for-life