The Institute for Philosophy and Social Theory is pleased to host a four-day international gathering exploring the intersections of China, Europe, and the future of socialism. Bringing together distinguished scholars from China and Europe, the event will offer lectures, discussions, and exchanges on the role of Marxism in shaping contemporary societies.

The theme of the event is the comparative exploration of socialist theory and practice, with a focus on how China’s Marxist path resonates with and challenges European perspectives. It will also address the global relevance of socialism today, asking how socialist traditions might inform responses to contemporary crises of democracy, capitalism, and inequality. Themes to be discussed range from China’s choice of Marxism and its theoretical innovations to the dynamics of socialism, capitalism, and finance in the 21st century.

The gathering will be opened by Chancellor of New York University Shanghai, Professor Tong Shijun. The event will conclude with a roundtable discussion on the meaning of socialism today, followed by closing remarks and the announcement of the upcoming conference.

This unique meeting seeks to foster a deeper understanding of how socialist thought is being reinterpreted and practiced across different contexts, and what this means for the future of global social and political transformations.

Sept 29 Monday
10:00–10:15 – Welcome – Gazela Pudar Draško, Tong Shijun and Aleksandar Stojanović
10:15–12:00 – Discussion: Shared interests in China. Marxism and Future of Socialism

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12:00–13:00 – Lunch break

13:00–14:15 – Introductory lecture: Tong Shijun – Why have the Chinese chosen Marxism

Sept 30 Tuesday
10:00–11:30 – Lecture 2: Zhang Junhua – Developing China: What are the key factors? A marxist analysis

Oct 1 Wednesday
10:00–11:30 – Lecture 3: Yan Fangjie – In What Ways Has China Achieved Theoretical Innovation in Maxism?
11:30–12:00 – Coffee break
12:00–13:30 – Lecture 4: Aleksandar Stojanovic – Socialism, capitalism and finance: China’s system in a marxist perspective

Oct 2 Thursday
10:00–11.30 – Lecture 5: Tong Shijun – What does socialism mean today?
11:30–12:00 – Coffee break
12:00–14:00 – Closing roundtable and announcing the conference