Book Details

Using Yourself as a Method: A Conversation with Xiang Biao

Using Yourself as a Method: A Conversation with Xiang Biao

Xiang Biao, Wu Qi / Shanghai Literature and Art Publishing House /July 1, 2020

"Using Myself as a Method" is a conversation record jointly completed by Xiang Biao and Wu Qi. The book takes Professor Xiang Biao's personal experience as a starting point and deeply explores a series of issues that transcend the self, involving the changes and development of Chinese society over the past half century. Through dialogues across five places, including Beijing, Oxford, Wenzhou, Hangzhou, and Shanghai, two generations of scholars exchanged ideas, shared insights, and demonstrated their deep thinking on Chinese and global issues. This book is not only a comprehensive review of Xiang Biao's academic thoughts, but also an interdisciplinary and cross-cultural collision of ideas, providing readers with new perspectives and ways of thinking. Whether for researchers in the humanities and social sciences, or for readers who care about Chinese and global issues, this book is a very inspiring and valuable reference.


Outline Notes

Book Summary of "Self as Method" "Self as Method" is a collection of dialogues between Xiang Biao and Wu Qi. Through in-depth discussions, it explores topics in multiple dimensions such as personal experience, knowledge production, and social change. The following is a brief summary of the content of the book. Chapter 1: The beginning of the dialogueSection 1: Introduction and background- Key point 1: Xiang Biao, professor of social anthropology at Oxford University, focuses on the global flow of marginalized groups; Wu Qi, journalist, editor-in-chief of "Dan Du". - Key point 2: The dialogue in the book originated from a long conversation without a preset topic, aiming to explore how to understand the world through personal experience. Section 2: Proposing a method- Key point 1: Self as a method emphasizes personal subjective experience and introspection. - Key point 2: The relationship between personal experience and social structure. Chapter 2: Youth and the TimesSection 1: The experience of the reform and opening-up generation- Key point 1: Xiang Biao describes the profound impact of the reform and opening-up and marketization process he experienced on his personal life. - Key point 2: The values and views of the world formed in youth have a far-reaching impact. Section 2: The Impact of Education - Key Point 1: The relationship between the education system and personal development. - Key Point 2: The importance of critical thinking and independent thinking. Chapter 3: Knowledge and Practice Section 1: Anthropological Perspective - Key Point 1: How anthropological research methods and theories help understand individuals and society. - Key Point 2: How Xiang Biao applied his anthropological research to the analysis of real society. Section 2: Knowledge and Action - Key Point 1: The practical value of theoretical knowledge and its application in the real world. - Key Point 2: The importance of learning and continuous adjustment in practice. Chapter 4: China and the World Section 1: Globalization and Localization - Key Point 1: The tension between the trend of globalization and local culture. - Key Point 2: How to maintain cultural continuity and uniqueness in global mobility. Section 2: China&39;s Changes - Key Point 1: The impact of social and economic changes since the reform and opening up on individual lives. - Key Point 2: The complexity and diversity of contemporary Chinese society. Chapter 5: Individual and PublicSection 1: Individual Social Responsibility - Key Point 1: How do individuals assume social responsibilities in modern society? - Key Point 2: How to find a balance between individualism and collectivism. Section 2: The establishment of public space - Key Point 1: The role of public space in promoting cultural exchange and social participation. - Key Point 2: How to create meaningful public domains in virtual and physical space. These chapters and content summaries are only a framework summary of the content of "Self as a Method". The richness and depth of the whole book require readers to read it personally to deeply appreciate it.


Catchy Sentences

For the book "Using Myself as a Method: A Conversation with Xiang Biao", I have selected 20 sentences or paragraphs with profound meaning, unique perspective, beautiful language, wisdom or creativity. The following is the content I have selected for you, which is output according to the numbers 1-20 for reference by readers of the book review website. 1. "Using yourself as a method is to use your own body and experience as a tool to understand and change the world." This sentence profoundly explains the core idea of the book, that is, the importance of personal experience and methodology in understanding and changing the world. 2. "We are often accustomed to looking for answers from the outside and ignore the voice of our own heart." The author reminds us that in the pursuit of knowledge and truth, personal feelings and intuition should not be ignored. 3. "Dialogue is not only a way of communication, but also a way to explore the world." This sentence emphasizes the value of dialogue in the cognitive world. Through dialogue, we can exchange views and deepen understanding. 4. "True understanding requires crossing the gap between culture and background." The author points out that true understanding requires transcending personal cultural and background limitations and seeking a broader consensus. 5. “In the era of globalization, we need to cultivate the ability of cross-cultural communication.” This sentence reflects the importance of cross-cultural communication ability in the context of globalization. 6. “When observing social phenomena, we should maintain objective and critical thinking.” The author reminds us to maintain objectivity and critical thinking when observing social phenomena, and avoid blindly accepting superficial information. 7. “Everyone has his or her own unique life experience and observation perspective, which is a valuable cognitive resource.” This sentence emphasizes the uniqueness and value of personal experience and perspective in the cognitive process. 8. “Learning is not only about acquiring knowledge, but also about shaping oneself.” The author elevates learning to the level of shaping oneself, emphasizing the deep meaning of learning. 9. “When facing complex problems, we need to cultivate diversified thinking.” This sentence advocates using diversified thinking when facing complex problems and looking for solutions from different angles. 10. “True wisdom does not lie in how much knowledge you have, but in how you use knowledge.” The author emphasizes that the essence of wisdom lies in the application of knowledge rather than simple accumulation. 11. “Creativity comes from questioning and challenging old ideas.” This sentence points out that the source of creativity lies in the reflection and challenge of traditional ideas. 12. “Language is a tool for thinking and a bridge for communication.” The author emphasizes the important role of language in thinking and communication. 13. “In a fast-changing world, adaptability is the key.” This sentence reminds us to constantly improve our adaptability in a fast-changing world. 14. “Listening to other people’s stories is another way to understand the world.” The author advocates listening to other people’s stories to enhance our understanding of the world. 15. “Reflection is the only way to self-growth.” This sentence emphasizes the important role of reflection in personal growth. 16. “Maintaining curiosity is the driving force for exploring the unknown world.” The author encourages us to maintain curiosity and have the courage to explore unknown areas. 17. “In the pursuit of truth, courage is an indispensable quality.” This sentence reminds us to have the courage to face difficulties and challenges in the process of pursuing truth. 18. “Knowledge is a bridge connecting the past, present and future.” The author gives knowledge a temporal depth and emphasizes its important role in historical development. 19. "Cultural diversity is the source of the richness of the world." This sentence affirms the positive role of cultural diversity in enriching the world's cultural landscape. 20. "As a method, oneself is a process of continuous exploration, learning and growth." This sentence, as a summary, emphasizes that taking oneself as a method is a continuous process of self-improvement and development.


Author Introduction

Title: Exploring the Depth and Breadth of Thoughts - A Dialogue between Xiang Biao and Wu Qi, Authors of "Using Yourself as a Method" In today's era of information explosion, we are often overwhelmed by various voices, and the book "Using Yourself as a Method" provides us with a unique way of thinking, allowing us to better understand ourselves and the world around us.< The authors of this book, Xiang Biao and Wu Qi, showed us the depth and breadth of their thoughts through in-depth dialogues.

Next, we will get to know these two authors from multiple perspectives.< 1.

Personal Basic Information and Educational Background Xiang Biao, born in Zhejiang Province, China in 1972, is a famous sociologist and anthropologist.< He received a bachelor's degree in sociology from Peking University and later went to Oxford University in the United Kingdom to pursue a doctorate.

Wu Qi, born in Jiangsu Province, China in 1982, is a senior journalist and writer.< He received a bachelor's degree in journalism from Nanjing University and then studied for a master's degree at Peking University.

2.< Professional Background Xiang Biao worked as a researcher at Oxford University and is currently a professor in the Department of Sociology at Peking University.

He also serves as an editorial board member of several international academic journals.< Wu Qi worked as a reporter for well-known media such as "Southern Weekend" and is currently a freelance writer focusing on research in the fields of society, culture and thought.

3.< Writing career and work style Xiang Biao's writing style is known for its rigor and depth.

His works cover sociology, anthropology, cultural studies and other fields.< His representative works include "Globalization and Chinese Society" and "Individualization of Chinese Society".

Wu Qi's writing style is sharp and unique.< His works focus on the interweaving of social phenomena and individual experiences, such as the columns in "Southern Weekend".

4.< Themes of works and personal life The theme of "Self as a Method" is to explore how individuals can find their own position in the context of globalization and how to achieve personal growth through self-reflection and dialogue.

In terms of personal life, Xiang Biao and Wu Qi both keep a low profile.< They prefer to focus on academic research and writing.

5.< Social impact and citation evaluation Since its publication, this book has received widespread attention and praise.

The New York Times Book Review praised it as "a masterpiece that deeply reveals the relationship between individuals and society.

" Sociologist Li Yinhe commented: "This book provides us with a new way of thinking, allowing us to better understand ourselves and the world around us.< " 6.

Latest developments Xiang Biao and Wu Qi are both continuing their academic research and writing.< Xiang Biao has recently been paying attention to the changes in Chinese society, while Wu Qi is preparing a new book about contemporary Chinese youth.

Through the above introduction, we can see that Xiang Biao and Wu Qi, as the authors of "Self as a Method", have added a lot to this book with their academic background, writing style and social influence.< Their dialogue not only provides us with a new perspective to think about problems, but also gives us a deeper understanding of the relationship between individuals and society.


More Recommended Notes

Lectures on the History of Western Philosophy

Lectures on the History of Western Philosophy

Author: Zhao Lin

"Lectures on the History of Western Philosophy" is a general textbook written by Professor Zhao Lin that introduces the history of Western philosophy in an easy-to-understand way. Based on classroom recordings, the book comprehensively and systematically sorts out the development of Western philosophy from ancient Greek and Roman philosophy to Hegel's philosophy, covering the essential viewpoints of many philosophical schools and thinkers. Through this book, readers can fully understand the evolution of Western philosophy, as well as the confrontation and inheritance of philosophical thoughts in various periods. Professor Zhao Lin uses his unique narrative method to transform the cumbersome concepts and profound theories in the history of philosophy into easy-to-understand texts, allowing readers to easily grasp the core essence of Western philosophy, thereby broadening their horizons and enhancing their humanistic qualities. This book is not only suitable for students majoring in philosophy, but also a must-read for humanities enthusiasts to understand Western philosophical thoughts.

Read Details
A history of the Tang Dynasty that will make you addicted after reading just one page (4 volumes)

A history of the Tang Dynasty that will make you addicted after reading just one page (4 volumes)

Author: Fan Xiyuan

"A History of the Tang Dynasty That Will Make You Addicted to Reading One Page" is a set of books written by Fan Xiyuan that presents the history of the Tang Dynasty in a panoramic manner. Through four volumes, the author describes the grandeur and richness of the Tang Dynasty in an easy-to-understand way. In the book, readers seem to be able to travel through time and space, feel the magnificence of the bright moon rising from the Tianshan Mountains and the vast sea of clouds; experience the noble and arrogant feeling of drinking alone with a pot of wine among the flowers; understand the deep sorrow of thinking about the vastness of the world and crying alone; and the open-minded feeling that there are bosom friends all over the world, and the world is as close as a neighbor. Fan Xiyuan presents a three-dimensional and vivid Tang Dynasty to readers with vivid brushstrokes and detailed historical materials, which makes people want to read it. This set of books is not only a wonderful interpretation of the history of the Tang Dynasty, but also a historical journey of the soul, suitable for all readers who love history and pursue spiritual nourishment.

Read Details
Song Feng Cheng Yun: Literary Life in Song Dynasty Society

Song Feng Cheng Yun: Literary Life in Song Dynasty Society

Author: Huang Bo

Written by Huang Bo, the book Song Feng Cheng Yun deeply analyzes the literary and artistic life of Song Dynasty society. The book selects five life scenes of the palace, officialdom, journey, imperial examination and literary world, vividly showing the unique charm of that era. The Song Dynasty, which was confidently called "the era of prosperity of cultural relics and spanning hundreds of generations" by the Song people, has a strong literary and artistic atmosphere that is breathtaking. This book not only depicts the transformation of the emperor of the Song Dynasty from rough to gentle, but also elaborates on the prosperity and development of poetry in the Song Dynasty. Through this book, readers will deeply feel the literary and artistic charm of Song Dynasty society and appreciate the style of that era. This is a precious work on the literary and artistic life of the Song Dynasty, which has important reference value for studying the history and culture of the Song Dynasty.

Read Details
Silicon Valley Iron Man: The Adventurous Life of Elon Musk

Silicon Valley Iron Man: The Adventurous Life of Elon Musk

Author: [US] Ashley Vance

"Iron Man of Silicon Valley" is the world's first book authorized by Elon Musk, presenting readers with the adventurous life and all-round true face of this technology entrepreneur. The book details how Musk established and operated companies such as PayPal, Tesla, and Space X, revealing the innovative ideas, leadership and firm will behind them. As a must-read classic for entrepreneurs, this book not only shows Musk's outstanding achievements in the field of science and technology, but also conveys an entrepreneurial spirit that dares to pursue dreams and break through conventions. By reading this book, readers can gain a deep understanding of Musk's way of thinking, action strategies, and coping strategies when facing challenges, thereby gaining valuable enlightenment and inspiration.

Read Details
The Decameron

The Decameron

Author: [Italian] Boccaccio

The Decameron is a masterpiece by Italian writer Boccaccio, and is praised as the first great realistic work in the history of European literature. Set against the backdrop of the plague epidemic in Florence, the book describes the refuge life of ten young men and women in a country villa. They spent ten difficult days telling a story every day. These stories not only expose the hypocrisy of the church and the ugliness of feudal society, but also praise the wisdom of human nature and the beauty of love. Each story is full of vivid character descriptions and realistic emotional expressions, showing the author's profound insight into human nature, society and history. With its unique narrative techniques and rich humanistic thoughts, The Decameron has influenced the literary creation of later generations and has become a shining pearl in the treasure house of world literature. This work not only allows us to understand the social outlook at that time, but also guides us to think about eternal themes such as human nature, love, and morality.

Read Details

Related Products

点击上方👆图片免费获取电子书Ad

点击上方👆图片免费获取电子书

得到听书会员月卡 限时买一送一 手机号自动充值Ad

得到听书会员月卡 限时买一送一 手机号自动充值

微信读书年卡会员VIP付费年卡 VX读书Ad

微信读书年卡会员VIP付费年卡 VX读书

帆书·商研院 《三维领导力》训练营Ad

帆书·商研院 《三维领导力》训练营