So goes the opening line in a story in The Times (London) on an internet statement issued by some Chinese intellectuals, calling for historical figures to appear on PRC currency notes (hat tip, CDT).  It is interesting to note their sense of who and what should stand as political-cultural icons:

They write: “So that the ancient pursuits of freedom and love of justice and
truth may continue to influence our generation of Chinese and our posterity,
we urge the authorities to consider printing images of the wise — Qu
Yuan, Li Bai, Yue Fei and Wen Tianxiang — on to the currency.”

     Ancient pursuits of freedom and love of justice and truth – amen brother!  Seems obvious that the intellectuals making this call are embracing the Mencian tradition and rejecting Legalism.  Their timing is historically influenced as well, coming on the new national holiday of the Dragon Boat Festival, which also commemorates a historical dissident, Qu Yuan, who committed suicide instead of serve the Legalist state of Qin.  Here is what the contemporary intellectuals have to say:

Zhang Xingshui, a lawyer and one of the 12 signatories to the appeal, said
that the ancient dissident should not be revered solely in line with current
government policy that regards him as a patriot. He should also be revered
as one who opposed the use of violence to conquer and for his respect for
equality, freedom and paternity.

      It's not just about patriotism – indeed, it may have little to do with patriotism.  Standing up to unjust power: not there's a Chinese tradition worth celebrating.

     And for those of you interested in early twentieth century Chinese currency, you must check out this post over at Frog in a Well.