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.
