President Xi Jinping today asked Chinese researchers to develop Marxism theory that fits into the 21st century, warning that if philosophy and social sciences are not people-centred they will lose their influence.
Speaking at a symposium discussing China's work in philosophy and social sciences, Xi asked Chinese social scientists to stick to Marxism in their studies.
"Marxism will remain the guiding theory in philosophy and social sciences in China," asserted Xi, who is also the general secretary of the ruling Communist Party of China.
An important task for philosophy and social sciences in China is to continue pushing for Marxism's modernisation and popularisation, continue developing a Marxism that fits into the 21st century and contemporary China, the 62-year-old said.
Philosophy and social sciences in China must be people-centred, otherwise they will lose their influence and vitality, Xi was quoted as saying by state-run Xinhua news agency.
"Marxism is never the end of truth. It opens a path toward truth," Xi said, adding that innovating theory through new practices has been the key to maintaining the vitality of Marxism.
Marxism is an open theory that has evolved with the times, practice and scientific progress, Xi said.
He called on research fellows in philosophy and social sciences to integrate socialist theory with Chinese characteristics into their research and teaching activities.
