a hundred schools of thought contend; free expression of diverse views
Meanings
2 senses · 6 examplesidiom
contention of a hundred schools of thought; flourishing of diverse academic views and debates
formalOriginally describes the intellectual flourishing of the Warring States period. Now often used metaphorically to describe a thriving environment for academic debate, art, or the expression of diverse opinions.
The Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods were a golden age of a hundred schools contending in the history of Chinese thought.
We advocate letting a hundred flowers bloom and a hundred schools of thought contend in the academic field.
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The seminar was lively, with various viewpoints clashing, which could be called a small-scale contention of a hundred schools.
In the internet age, various voices contend online, creating a new situation of a hundred schools contending.
idiom
see also 'Let a hundred flowers bloom, let a hundred schools of thought contend'
formalThis is a cross-reference to the related, more common policy phrase 'bǎi huā qí fàng, bǎi jiā zhēng míng'.
The government implements the policy of letting a hundred flowers bloom and a hundred schools of thought contend to promote cultural prosperity.
Academic discussions should follow the principle of a hundred schools contending and a hundred flowers blooming.