The capital of east China's Fujian Province, hometown of Yan Fu, recently hosted a ceremony in commemoration of the late translator, thinker, educator and patriot.
Born in 1853, Yan played an important role in China's modern history by promoting science, patriotism, institutional reforms and social development.
His translation of Thomas H. Huxley's Evolution and Ethics represents one of the earliest attempts to introduce the socio-political doctrines of the Western bourgeoisie into China.
Yan also translated into Chinese Herbert Spencer's Study of Sociology, Adam Smith's An Inquiry Into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations, J.S. Mill's On Liberty and Montequieu's De l'Esprit des Lois.
A collection of theses on Yan Fu's thought was recently published in commemoration of the great scholar, who passed away in 1921.
Further studies into the works and thoughts of Yan Fu will encourage the younger generation to inherit his patriotism and endeavors, and make sustained efforts for the reunification and prosperity of the motherland, said Zheng Zhong, head of the provincial Yan Fu Study Society.
Present at the commemoration ceremony were officials of the Fujian Provincial government, members of Yan's family and scholars from Tsinghua University and Peking University where Yan Fu had served as president.
(eastday.com December 21, 2001)
