Social Sciences in China (Chinese Edition)

No. 10, 2025

Marxism and Research Approaches to Traditional Chinese Economic Thought

(Abstract)

Miao Degang and Wei Zhong

Traditional Chinese economic thought not only possesses distinctive indigenous characteristics but also contains exceptional wisdom relevant to contemporary realities, forming the historical foundation for constructing an independent knowledge system of Chinese economics. Since modern times, amid the disciplinary systematization of traditional Chinese economic thought driven by transformations in social production modes, Marxism has emerged as the guiding theory for its creative transformation. This has illuminated central research concerns deserving focus and effectively resolved preliminary methodological challenges, such as historical periodization. The dynamic practice of socialism with Chinese characteristics in the new era has created fresh opportunities for advancing studies of traditional Chinese economic thought. It is therefore essential to integrate the basic tenets of Marxism with China’s specific realities and fine traditional culture, explore the essential ideas embedded in traditional Chinese economic thought, and promote its creative transformation. This endeavor will provide historical insight for addressing the questions of our time and enable the enduring renewal of China’s fine traditional culture.