In this episode, philosopher Bryan van Norden joins the ResponsAbility Podcast to explore the importance of intercultural philosophy in a globalized world. Drawing on decades of work in Chinese and comparative philosophy, he reflects on the persistent Eurocentrism of academic philosophy and the gradual shift toward a more inclusive canon. The conversation highlights how traditions such as Confucianism contribute rich insights into ethical cultivation, virtue, and practical wisdom, offering perspectives highly relevant to professional life. Bryan also discusses how dialogue across traditions deepens philosophical understanding, challenges assumptions, and fosters more responsible and meaningful ways of living. The episode ultimately invites listeners to rethink philosophy as a genuinely global, dialogical practice with practical implications for education, society, and personal development.
00:00:54 – Motivation and background: how Bryan became interested in Chinese philosophy
00:02:44 – Eurocentrism in philosophy: developments and changes in academia
00:06:05 – Why study Chinese philosophy today
00:08:33 – Intercultural philosophy: value of dialogue between traditions
00:11:44 – Comparative insights: what becomes visible across traditions
00:16:20 – Application: relevance of intercultural philosophy for professional studies
00:19:24 – Exclusion of non-Western philosophy: historical and philosophical reasons
00:22:45 – Global challenges: what intercultural philosophy can contribute
00:24:33 – ResponsAbility and virtue: shared ideas across traditions
00:28:04 – Anti-intellectualism: consequences of rejecting philosophy and science
00:32:52 – Living well: how philosophy can guide meaningful and responsible lives
Between Theory and Practice – Questions for Reflection:
How might the insights from this dialogue inspire your own practice? The following questions are intended to inspire further inquiry, whether explored individually or in conversation with colleagues, students, or peers.
- Bryan van Norden suggests that wisdom can emerge through dialogue across different philosophical and cultural traditions. In your own professional or personal life, where might you be relying primarily on a single perspective, and what new possibilities for understanding or action could emerge if you intentionally engaged with perspectives from outside your usual frame of reference?
- Confucian philosophy emphasizes that virtues such as empathy, integrity, and practical wisdom are cultivated through everyday relationships, communities, and practices. Which habits, relationships, or routines in your own life currently support the development of these qualities, and what small but concrete step could you take to strengthen your capacity to respond wisely and responsibly in the situations you encounter?
Literature:
- van Norden, Bryan. 2019.Classical Chinese For Everyone:A Guide For Absolute Beginner. Indianapolis: Hackett Publishing, 2019.
- van Norden, Bryan and Justin Tiwald (eds)- 2014. Readings in Later Chinese Philosophy: Han to the 20th Century. Indianapolis: Hackett Publishing,
- van Norden, Bryan. 2011. Introduction to Classical Chinese Philosophy. Indianapolis: Hackett Publishing, 2011.
- Van Norden, Bryan. 2009. Translator, The Essential Mengzi: Selected Passages with Traditional Commentary. Indianapolis: Hackett Publishing, 2009.
- Van Norden, Bryan. 2008. Translator, Mengzi: With Selections from Traditional Commentaries. Indianapolis: Hackett Publishing.
- Van Norden, Bryan. 2007. Virtue Ethics and Consequentialism in Early Chinese Philosophy. New York: Cambridge University Press.
- Van Norden, Bryan and Philip J. Ivanhoe. (eds) 2005. Readings in Classical Chinese Philosophy. Second ed. Indianapolis: Hackett Publishing,
- Van Norden, Bryan. (ed) 2001. Confucius and the "Analects": New Essays. New York: Oxford University Press, 2001.
- Van Norden, Bryan (ed.) 1996. The Ways of Confucianism by David S. Nivison. Chicago: Open Court Press, 1996. Chinese translation published as 儒家之道 : 中国哲学之探讨 (Nanjing : Jiangsu renmin chubanshe, 2006).
