Understanding Pre-Marital Sexual Behavior: A Perspective from the 9th National Cultural Festival Forum
On July 7th, the forum discussing pre-marital sexual behavior took place at the University Town during the 9th National Cultural Festival. The atmosphere was notably open, with students fearlessly engaging with the speaker, Professor Dong Yuzheng. One female student, in particular, stood out for her bold questioning, repeatedly asking the professor, “Under what circumstances can one offer themselves?” This audacious inquiry was viewed as progressive; however, it raises a critical question—are we truly progressing?
The Illusion of Progress
While it is commonly stated that society is advancing, the reality is more complex. Despite China's GDP ranking second globally and a significant improvement in material wealth, the evolution of human thought appears to have stagnated, or even regressed in some areas. The contemporary issues we face, such as inadequate sex education, are reminiscent of problems previously resolved by earlier generations.
A Historical Perspective
In the 1980s, China experienced a cultural awakening where thoughts, especially those surrounding sex education, were more liberal and openly discussed. However, three decades later, many still grapple with outdated beliefs and misconceptions. This persistence of confusion can be attributed to our current educational methods, which emphasize standardized answers over critical thinking.
The Impact of Educational Approaches
Many parents inadvertently reinforce the importance of "correct answers" when helping their children with schoolwork. When faced with open-ended questions lacking a definitive answer, they tend to guide their children towards what they believe the teacher expects. As a result, students learn to abandon independent thought in favor of memorizing established answers. This reliance on predefined responses limits their ability to navigate the complexities of life and inquiry.
The Dangers of Relying on Standard Answers
Students who see exam scores as the essence of their existence perceive the absence of standard answers as catastrophic. Our extensive educational system often functions as a machine providing only predetermined responses. This leads to a rigid mindset where non-standard answers are marginalized or suppressed. Living in a world with no straightforward answers means that many may feel trapped in outdated beliefs, thinking that the earth is flat or viewing themselves as the center of the universe. Instead of building on past wisdom, we find ourselves merely collecting fragments of it.
The Courage to Seek Personal Understanding
Returning to the bold student, her inquiries highlight a desperate need for standard answers rather than an embrace of exploration. Her behavior, often misinterpreted as bravery, reveals a deeper fear—facing the realities of life without clear guidelines. The applause from her classmates reflects a collective apprehension about stepping out of their comfort zones in search of answers.
Seeking True Answers
This raises an important question: why do we struggle to achieve recognition, such as the Nobel Prize? The truth is, accolades are awarded not for providing standard answers, but for those who courageously seek them. It’s not merely about finding the answers but the journey of inquiry itself.
In conclusion, while forums like these serve as platforms for discussion, they also expose the gaps in our education and cultural understanding around critical topics like sexual behavior. It is imperative that we encourage a culture of questioning and exploration, helping future generations navigate a complex world where the answers may not always be clear-cut.