The Intersections of Values, Empirics and the Context

When Ruiping and Sungmoon asked me to reflect on the workshop exploring the intersections of East–West philosophies on good governanceGood governance, I pondered whether the response should be more personal or analytical. Should I frame my insights through the lens of a political scientist, a Chinese educated in the West, or focus on the debates and consensus that emerged, particularly my assigned role as a liberal? Although Ruiping’s office is just next door, and Sungmoon’s is only a few steps away, I decided not to seek specific guidance. Our history of collaboration through workshops, seminars, and committees at CityU— accompanying the recognition of the rewards and challenges inherent in editing journals and books— has fostered a familiarity with each other’s research interests and a shared intellectual foundation. I trustTrust that this sense of common ground will afford me the liberty to convey my reflections while remaining true to the spirit of their initiative for this vital exchange of ideas and observations.