Philosopher's guide

"Meritocracy is where mainstream political culture is in China, which is large and complex."

Consequently, he emphasizes the importance for the modern world to "respect the differences".

"I don't think any philosophy per se can solve problem," he says. "But values in Confucian traditions are helpful to think of issues more efficiently."

For example, according to traditional Confucianism, social relations should be in a form of peaceful order, and diversity coexists with harmony. He believes these ideas can resonate among many cultures. He hails China's efforts to cut poverty and improve this kind of harmony.

And, for foreigners who want to know fundamentals of Chinese politics today, he still recommends "classics" first.

"Most of the greatest works were done in the Spring and Autumn Period," he says. "It's important to read (Confucian) classics starting with Confucius, Mencius and Xunzi."

Both Mencius and Xunzi were followers of Confucianism in the later Warring States Period (475-221 BC).

"But it should also include their critics like the so-called legalists as well as other mainstream schools. The books are still on the subjects we need today."

Separately, speaking of the revival of traditional culture in China in recent years, which has led to Confucian institutions and academies mushrooming all over the country, Bell thinks the trend is positive as long as "there are different interpretations".

"It will be bad to say 'This is what Confucianism means, and other interpretations are disallowed'," Bell says. "It's a good thing if there are more diverse expressions of Confucianism and other Chinese philosophies flowering all over China."