The Philosophic Wisdom of Confucianism and East-West Dialogue：An Interview with Professor Branko Balon

As the first visiting scholar of the Qilu International Renowned Scholars Initiative, Branko Balon—President of the Croatia-China Friendship Society (CCFS) and professor at Algebra University College in Zagreb—conducted research in Shandong from February to March 2025. During his residency at the Confucius Research Institute, Professor Balon sat down for an exclusive interview with Thinking Through Confucius and shared his insights on the contemporary relevance of Confucian philosophy and the critical role of cross-cultural dialogue in the era of artificial intelligence (AI).

Professor Branko Balon, the first visiting scholar of the

International Renowned Scholars “Qilu Visiting Study and Research

Residency Program”

Chen Yifeng: Confucius is revered in China as the “Great Sage” and celebrated as the “Teacher of All Teachers.” Beyond his legacy in education, he is also known as a philosopher and statesman. Could you share how you personally see Confucius?

Branko Balon: I will try to explain what Confucius means to me as a professor from Europe and also as a practitioner of Chinese martial arts, Taiji, and Qigong. Confucius is the founder of a philosophical system that has become one of the key pillars of Chinese society, I see him as a great philosopher and moral thinker, comparable to Western philosophers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle.

Confucius is a symbol of Eastern wisdom. He is often quoted in leadership, business, and diplomacy in the West. He is also a figure of cultural exchange, particularly in discussions about China’s global influence. Confucius’ philosophy on the organization of society and human relationships teaches us respect for ethical rules and traditions, consideration for others, kindness, and constant self-improvement through self-reflection.

For professors like myself and all who work with and teach people, especially children and young people, I believe it is important to be familiar with the Confucian principles. These principles can guide and inspire us in nurturing young people to become noble, mature individuals who embody true human values: love, respect, humility, resilience, self-development, and wisdom.

Confucius teaches that true education isn’t merely about filling minds with information, as often seen in modern education systems, particularly in the West, but about cultivating wisdom and learning to connect the heart with the mind.

Through my perspective as a practitioner of martial arts, I see Confucianism as the most important philosophy supporting martial ethics, a crucial aspect of martial arts that defines the relationship to one’s skill, teacher, and one’s own path of development. Confucius’ wisdom is deeply connected with the principles of martial arts, Taiji, and Qigong, as his philosophy emphasizes balance, discipline, self-cultivation, and harmony, the key elements of these practices.

Confucius believed that personal growth and ethical refinement were lifelong pursuits. Martial arts are not just about physical strength but about developing “de 德,” or “virtue.” He emphasized self-discipline, which is essential in martial arts training: A true martial artist must cultivate humility, respect, and perseverance. Confucius taught that one should act with “yi   义,” or “integrity and righteousness,” a principle mirrored in martial arts through the teaching to avoid unnecessary violence and use skills responsibly.

Taiji, as a martial art, embodies Confucian ideals of balance, harmony, and flow. The Confucian “Doctrine of the Mean,” which advises that one should avoid extremes and seek balance in life, finds physical expression in Taiji movements balancing yin 阴 and yang 阳. With its principle of gentleness over brute force, just as Confucius valued wisdom through softness, Taiji uses fluid motions to neutralize aggression rather than confronting force directly.

Confucius encouraged self-awareness and introspection. Similarly, Qigong, a practice integrating breath control, meditation, and movement to cultivate “qi 气,” or “energy,” embodies this philosophy. He stressed the importance of maintaining bodily and mental harmony, regarding them as foundations for becoming a fulfilled human being and an effective leader, goals that align with Qigong’s pursuit of longevity and inner peace. The practice focuses on breath regulation and meditation, which directly echoes Confucius’ teachings that virtuous conduct requires sustained energy and focus. By enhancing qi, or life force, Qigong ensures that one has the strength to follow the Confucian path.

Chen Yifeng: During your stay in Qufu, the birthplace of Confucius, you explored a number of cultural sites, such as the Confucius Temple, the Kong Family Residence, the Confucius Museum, and the Confucius Research Institute. What are your impressions of the ancient or modern architecture associated with such an influential figure?

Branko Balon: As I visited the Confucius Temple and the Kong Family Mansion, I realized these are not merely historical sites but living symbols of Confucius’ enduring legacy. Together, they reflect China’s profound reverence for its greatest philosopher and educator, preserving his teachings and cultural influence for generations. Walking through the Temple in Qufu feels like stepping into a sacred convergence of history and wisdom. I could feel that as one of China’s largest and most significant temples, the Temple radiates the core Confucian principles of ritual, respect, and harmony. Grand halls, ancient inscriptions, and high cypress trees create a sense of reverence, reminding visitors of the deep cultural influence Confucius has had for over 2,500 years. The Temple inspires a sense of awe, much like standing in front of the Parthenon in Greece or the Vatican in Rome—places where philosophy and spirituality merge.

Professor Balon visiting the Temple of Confucius

The Kong Family Mansion, home to Confucius’ descendants for generations, demonstrates how his lineage was honored throughout history. It’s not just a residence but a manifestation of Confucian values: filial piety, fraternal deference, and ethical leadership. Through its furnishings, ancestral shrines, and scholarly artifacts, visitors could witness how these ideals permeated elite education and governance. Walking through its halls, I could almost hear the whispers of history: the debates of scholars, the strides of officials, and the strong sense of moral duty passed down from generation to generation.

The Confucius Museum in Qufu is a modern tribute to Confucius, where technology is combined with history, and the past and the future are connected. I have never seen such a museum in Croatia, and I was really impressed by its innovative approach. Through interactive exhibits, ancient manuscripts and digital reconstructions, it makes Confucian teachings accessible to younger generations. It shows how Confucianism influenced not only China, but all of Asia, and even Western thinkers like Voltaire and Kant. What makes this museum exceptional is its revelation that Confucian ideas are not just relics, but living principles for modern society.

Generally, visiting Qufu offers a profound experience of the wisdom of Confucius. It is a place of reflection where one can contemplate the meaning of virtue, duty, and harmony. Every step through the Temple, the Mansion, or the Museum carries the weight of history and the timeless relevance of Confucian thought.

I really enjoyed my work at the Confucius Research Institute in Qufu. This academic institution embodies the continuation and revitalization of Confucian philosophy, ensuring its relevance in the modern world. The Institute, located in the birthplace of Confucius, is a place of powerful cultural and spiritual energy. Situated on the central north-south axis of the city, it reflects traditional Chinese architectural principles. Integrated gardens, water features and courtyards symbolize balance, peace and contemplation. Rock formations and pathways evoke the classic scholar-recluse aesthetic, reflecting the tradition of landscape painting. The use of natural materials (wood, stone, water) manifests the Confucian reverence for the simplicity of nature. The Yin-Yang philosophy is also reflected in the design through contrasts: open yang spaces for activity and enclosed yin halls for introspection. More than a scholarly institution, the Institute is a living embodiment of Confucian ideals—a physical space intentionally designed to cultivate wisdom, balance, and ethical learning. Each brick and tile represents Confucius’ lifelong pursuit of knowledge and virtue.

Chen Yifeng: In recent years, we have witnessed the rapid development of AI around the world. However, this has also raised a variety of concerns among us. We would like to hear your thoughts on how you think AI relates to culture, and whether you think it is important for AI to be guided and regulated by ethical rules.

Branko Balon: In my opinion, AI is tightly connected to culture because it is created, trained, and applied by humans who carry cultural values, biases, and traditions with them. AI is not just a technological tool; it is a cultural artifact that reflects human beliefs, social structures, and ethical priorities. I truly believe that AI reflects cultural values. AI systems, such as music, movie, or literary recommendation algorithms, adapt to the preferences of different cultures. Language models and translation tools are shaped by linguistic diversity, dialects, and cultural expressions. AI reinforces and challenges cultural norms. In many cultures, AI is used to preserve traditions, such as digitizing ancient manuscripts or creating art in historical styles. In others, AI challenges norms by enabling new forms of creative expression or challenging traditional job roles. Cultural perspectives on the ethics of AI are very important. Western cultures often focus on individual rights and privacy, one example is the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe. Eastern cultures, particularly in China, may emphasize collective benefits and social harmony in AI development.

Professor Balon visiting the Confucius Research Institute

AI is a powerful tool, but without ethical guidelines, it can lead to harmful consequences such as misinformation, bias, inequality, and loss of human autonomy. When developing and using AI, we must be aware that ethical rules are critical. AI learns from human-generated data, which may contain biases. If left unchecked, AI can exacerbate gender, racial, or socioeconomic inequalities. Ethical AI must ensure fairness and inclusion by using diverse and representative data sets. AI decisions must be explainable and not operate as black boxes. Ethical AI should have accountability mechanisms to ensure that companies and developers are responsible for the actions of their AI systems. AI systems collect vast amounts of data, raising concerns about surveillance and misuse of personal information. AI should be designed for the social good, improving healthcare, education, and sustainability, rather than being driven solely by corporate profit motives. Ethical AI should be aligned with human values and respect human dignity. We should always be aware that AI can be used in harmful ways. AI can be used for warfare, deep-fakes, or mass surveillance, posing ethical and geopolitical threats. The use of AI for security purposes, if left unchecked, could lead to violations of personal freedoms and human rights, threatening global stability. International agreements and AI ethics committees must establish guidelines to prevent misuse in military and state control systems.

While AI-driven innovation promises great benefits, it also raises concerns about privacy, security risks, and ethical dilemmas. Robust governance frameworks and global ethical standards for AI are essential for responsible innovation. To realize AI’s potential for civilizational exchange and peaceful development, global cooperation and ethical considerations must be prioritized. Historians, technologists, policymakers, and ethicists should work together to ensure that AI development is consistent with cultural sensitivity and ethical standards. Nations should collaborate on AI policies that promote transparency, accountability, and the fair use of AI technologies. Raising awareness of the potential and risks of AI will empower individuals to use the technology responsibly and to critically evaluate digital content.

Chen Yifeng: The cultures of different countries and nations are wonderfully diverse, and the progress of humanity benefits greatly from exchanges and mutual understanding among civilizations. In light of this, what principles and attitudes do you believe should be adopted to promote such exchanges and enhance our mutual understanding today?

Branko Balon: In our increasingly interconnected world, cultural exchange is essential to fostering mutual respect, cooperation, and global progress. While different civilizations have unique traditions, beliefs, and values, they all contribute to the richness of the human experience. The first principle that should be adopted to promote such exchanges is respect for other cultures and civilizations. Even if we don’t know much about other cultures, we should respect them and realize that there is a whole history behind them. So we should be tolerant and respectful of each other and of other cultures. The second principle in accepting intercultural exchange is to discover what we have in common with different cultures. Finding common values strengthens bonds and improves mutual understanding. I believe that every civilization, despite its differences, essentially has the same aspirations, the same essential and original values. School education is a very important medium for promoting mutual understanding. If children acquire an attitude of respect towards different people, nations and civilizations from an early age, as well as the curiosity to explore and learn about different civilizations, they will have more chances as adults to be part of this nonviolent and respectful society. Raising awareness of the destructiveness of selfishness on an individual and global level is the key.

To enhance mutual understanding, we should embrace key principles and adopt open-minded attitudes. Every culture has wisdom, history and values that deserve respect. Instead of judging cultures through ethnocentric perspectives, we should recognize the unique contributions of each civilization. I recall UNESCO’s principle: “Cultural diversity is as necessary for humankind as biodiversity is for nature.” We have examples of how China’s respect for Confucianism, India’s embrace of spiritual traditions, and Europe’s appreciation of Enlightenment thought all enrich humanity. We must always remember that no culture is superior to another; mutual learning requires equal and open dialogue. History shows that civilizations flourish through cultural exchange, an example of this is the Silk Road, which connected Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. We should avoid cultural hegemony, where a dominant culture imposes its values on others. We have a good example of exchange in Europe when the Renaissance was influenced by Arab and Greek knowledge, which shows that progress happens through cultural interaction. The guideline should always be the key Confucian principle of valuing differences without conflict. The goal should be coexistence, not forcing uniformity or assimilation. By valuing both common humanity and unique cultural expressions, we can build a world of cooperation rather than division. Different cultures may have different traditions, but they often share universal values—such as respect, compassion, and justice. By focusing on what we have in common, we build bridges rather than walls. A perfect example is the concept of the “Golden Rule,” “do not impose on others that which you yourself do not want,” which exists in Confucianism, Christianity, Islam, and many other traditions. Instead of fearing the unknown, we should approach other cultures with curiosity and humility. Learning about another culture does not weaken one’s own identity—it enriches it. Travel, literature, and cross-cultural friendships expand our understanding.

The Croatian edition of the Analects

For example, many Western scholars admire Laozi and Confucius, just as many Chinese appreciate Greek philosophy and European literature. Understanding another culture requires walking in its shoes and seeing the world from its perspective. We should recognize that certain traditions have deep historical and emotional significance for the people who practice them. For example, tea culture in China, Japan, and the UK may seem like a simple habit, but it has profound social and philosophical significance in each place.

While governments and institutions play a significant role, true understanding happens through direct human interaction. Programs such as student exchanges, cultural festivals, and international cooperation create bonds between individuals. A good example is the success of Confucius Institutes, Fulbright scholarships, and Erasmus programs in fostering global friendships and cultural appreciation. Social media and digital platforms can either spread cultural awareness or reinforce stereotypes. We should support authentic storytelling and diverse representations rather than one-sided narratives. AI and technology should be designed to respect and preserve cultural heritage, not erase or distort it. The progress of humanity depends not only on economic and technological advancement, but also on our ability to respect, learn from, and collaborate with other cultures. By embracing respect, equality, harmony and empathy, we can create a world where diversity is a strength, not a division. I believe that culture should unite people and nations, not divide them. Mutual learning enriches everyone, and understanding different cultures helps us solve global challenges together.

Chen Yifeng: As human beings, we find ourselves confronted with many significant global challenges that encompass not only the material aspects, but also the spiritual and cultural dimensions. To effectively address these pressing issues, we need to draw on the invaluable cultural and civilizational resources alongside the strengths of our economy and technology. What are your thoughts on the development and role of culture in this era of globalization?

Branko Balon: In this age of globalization, culture is not just a passive backdrop to economic and technological progress. I believe it is an active force that shapes human identity, values, and the way we address global challenges. As we navigate an interconnected world, culture plays a critical role in fostering understanding, resilience, and ethical progress. At a time when economies are intertwined and technology dominates daily life, people are seeking cultural roots and spiritual depth to find meaning beyond material success. The rise of cultural heritage revivals, indigenous knowledge systems, and interest in traditional philosophies, such as Confucianism, Stoicism, and Buddhism, demonstrates the human need for cultural continuity in the midst of rapid change. Let me quote Marcus Garvey: “A nation without culture is like a tree without roots.” Globalization has led to economic integration, but cultural misunderstandings and ideological conflicts persist. Cultural diplomacy, which involves the exchange of ideas, traditions, and arts, is essential to promoting peace and mutual respect. Technological and economic progress must be guided by ethical and cultural wisdom to avoid social alienation, environmental degradation, and ethical dilemmas in AI and biotechnology.

Ancient wisdom, whether Confucian ren, Aristotelian virtue ethics, or Ubuntu philosophy, provides guidance for responsible leadership, sustainable living, and ethical technology. We should always remember: “Technology makes it possible; culture makes it meaningful.” The Internet has democratized cultural production, making knowledge, art, and philosophy more accessible than ever before. Virtual museums, online courses, AI-generated art, and digital archives preserve and share cultural treasures across borders. Ancient philosophies offer valuable insights into ethics, leadership, and sustainability in modern governance and business. Confucianism, Daoism, and indigenous ecological wisdom can guide sustainable development policies. Education must integrate cultural literacy, teaching not only STEM skills but also philosophy, ethics, and intercultural understanding. Schools should promote multilingualism and intercultural studies to prepare students for a globalized world. Culture is not a relic of the past, but a driving force for the future. At a time when economic and technological progress dominate discussions, we must recognize that true progress must integrate cultural wisdom, ethical responsibility and human-centered development. Culture must guide technology and economics, not be overshadowed by them. Diversity must be preserved to avoid cultural uniformity and the loss of wisdom traditions. Education, digital innovation and intercultural dialogue will shape the next cultural renaissance. Globalization should not mean the erasure of cultures, but their enrichment through dialogue and mutual respect.

Chen Yifeng: Do you have a lot of opportunities to access Chinese culture in Croatia? We would like to hear your suggestions on how we can further promote the spread of Chinese culture in overseas countries.

Branko Balon: In Croatia we have a few opportunities to access Chinese culture. The Confucius Institute at the University of Zagreb was established in 2012 in cooperation with the Shanghai University of International Business and Economics. It plays a major role in promoting Chinese culture in Croatia. Many Croatian people had their first encounter with Chinese culture by attending programs at the Confucius Institute, mainly by learning the Chinese language. There is also a Sinology program at the University of Zagreb for Croatians who want to learn more about Chinese culture.

The dragon boat race on Lake Jarun to celebrate the Dragon Boat Festival at the

Confucius Institute of the University of Zagreb

The Confucius Institute at the University of Zagreb organizes annual dragon boat races on Jarun Lake to celebrate the Dragon Boat Festival and promote traditional Chinese customs. The Second Chinese Film Festival in Zagreb in January 2025 was jointly organized by the Chinese Film Archive, the Confucius Institute, and the Chinese Embassy. It featured 11 Chinese films, offering Croatian audiences an insight into Chinese cinema.

The other opportunities are through non-governmental organizations such as the Croatia-China Friendship Society for cultural, scientific and economic cooperation in Zagreb, of which I am the president. It has been very active in promoting Chinese culture in Croatia through various initiatives:

1. Celebration of the Chinese Spring Festival—The Society celebrates the Chinese New Year every year, promoting cultural exchange and mutual understanding. In 2018, they o rganized a significant event in Zagreb, which attracted about 500 participants to welcome the Year of the Dog.

2. Organizing Chinese calligraphy, Taiji, and Qiqong workshops—By learning about the philosophy behind martial arts, Croatians also learn about Chinese culture.

3. Organizing Chinese tea ceremonies with Jing Yuan tea house in Zagreb.

4. Participation in many cultural promotion events—In September 2024, I participated in the “2024 China (Changsha) Cultural and Tourism Promotion Event” in Dubrovnik. This event aimed to showcase Changsha’s rich cultural heritage and strengthen cultural ties between China and Croatia.

The China Film Festival in Zagreb

5. Advocacy for policy improvements: I welcomed the extension of China’s visa-free policy to Croatia, emphasizing its potential to boost bilateral relations and facilitate cultural exchanges.

Through these activities, CCFS continues to serve as an indispensable bridge between Croatian and Chinese cultures, fostering a deeper mutual appreciation and understanding. If there were a way to fund their projects, it would give them an even greater significance in promoting Chinese culture.

To further promote Chinese culture in Croatia and overseas countries, the following strategies can be considered:

1. Leverage visual culture—Use dynamic visual media to present Chinese culture in a way that resonates with diverse audiences, making it more accessible and engaging.

2. Engage overseas Chinese communities—Strengthen ties with overseas Chinese associations, such as the Croatian-Chinese Friendship Society in Croatia, to serve as cultural ambassadors and foster deeper ties between China and host countries.

3. Enhance cultural exchanges—Organize theme years, seminars, exhibitions and concerts in cooperation with international cultural organizations to deepen mutual understanding.

4. Develop cultural products—Create appealing cultural products that embody Chinese traditions and values, making them accessible and attractive to global audiences.

By implementing these strategies, the richness of Chinese culture can be shared more widely and global appreciation and understanding promoted.

(Branko Balon: President of the Croatia-China Friendship Society, Professor at Algebra University College in Zagreb; Chen Yifeng: Researcher at the Confucius Research Institute, Director of the Editorial Department of Thinking Through Confucius)