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What transforms an ancient text into a timeless classic? For Misha Tadd, associate professor at Nankai University’s College of Philosophy, the answer lies in universal resonance—the ability to speak across centuries and cultures.
The ‘Tao Te Ching’ Phenomenon
Tadd, who directs the Global Laozegetics Research Center, has spent years tracking over 2,052 translations of the ‘Tao Te Ching’ in 97 languages. ‘A classic isn’t just old—it’s endlessly adaptable,’ he says. The text’s wisdom captivated him as a teen in the U.S. and still inspires global readers today.
From Tolstoy to TikTok: Why Classics Stick
Think Tolstoy meets Taoism: Tadd highlights how icons like the Russian novelist drew from the ‘Tao Te Ching.’ ‘Each generation finds new meaning. That’s the magic—it’s like a philosophical remix,’ he laughs.
The Global Laozegetics Mission
Tadd’s center bridges scholarly research and public engagement, proving that #PhilosophyIsForEveryone. ‘Our goal? Make ancient wisdom accessible without losing its depth,’ he explains. After all, if a 2,500-year-old text can trend on social media, maybe classics *are* the original influencers.
‘A classic isn’t just old—it’s endlessly adaptable,’ he says. The text’s wisdom captivated him as a teen in the U.S. and still inspires global readers today.
‘Each generation finds new meaning. That’s the magic—it’s like a philosophical remix,’ he laughs.
‘Our goal? Make ancient wisdom accessible without losing its depth,’ he explains. After all, if a 2,500-year-old text can trend on social media, maybe classics *are* the original influencers.
