Social Science Fair of “Wisdom Convergence for Social Sciences Fun” Opened at SSSM
On May 18th, during the 23rd Shanghai Social Science Popularization Week, the social science fair “Wisdom Convergence for Social Sciences Fun,” hosted by the Shanghai Federation of Social Science Associations (SFSSA), opened at the Shanghai Social Science Museum (SSSM). A total of sixteen distinctive activities — including “Red Legacy Handicraft,” “Printing Experience,” “Discovery Shanghai Knowledge Quiz,” and “Spring Rhyme and Reading” — made a collective debut.
This year’s social science fair built upon last year’s success, further highlighting Shanghai’s unique cultural identity and attracting many citizens to participate. “A guide explained how the Party’s underground workers transmitted intelligence through mailboxes, which greatly impressed my child. He was so fascinated by the story of the ‘Red Postal Route’ that we’ve planned a visit to the Postal Museum,” said a parent at the fair. In front of the “Shanghai Style and Tune—Step into the World of Shanghai Dialect” section, a young visitor lingered for a long time, saying, “I’ve realized that the Shanghai dialect is not just a way of speaking — it’s also a reflection of the city’s development history.”
“It’s not just about having fun. We hope our fair showcases the knowledge behind these cultural experiences,” said a staff member from the federation. In the “Elegance of the Jiangnan Region—Display of Ancient Architectural Culture and Woodblock Printing” area, teachers and students from the Shanghai Arts and Crafts College displayed materials and drawings used in the restoration of ancient architecture, allowing visitors to observe mineral pigments in painted decorations through microscopes. At the “Chinese Language and Characters Quiz” section, organized by the Shanghai Language Workers Association, long lines formed as participants eagerly waited their turn to answer quiz questions. Laughter and surprise filled the crowd, with one exclaiming, “What? I’ve been mispronouncing this character for over 30 years!”
By presenting traditional culture through modern expressions, the event aimed to bring China’s outstanding cultural heritage closer to the public — especially to young people — helping them better understand and identify with Chinese civilization. The Shanghai Shaoxing Opera Troupe’s costume display and try-on event drew large crowds of enthusiasts. “I never understood the beauty of Chinese opera before, but now I feel my cultural roots awakening!” said a young woman excitedly while taking selfies. Meanwhile, the mini-garden party organized by miHoYo and the comic series “Chinese Ponies” created by Oletoon showcased the boundless charm of traditional culture through interactive games and comics.
By encouraging the exchange of ideas, sharing of knowledge, and experience of culture, the social science fair not only demonstrated the innovation and vitality of Shanghai’s cultural practices but also further integrated social science knowledge into everyday life — allowing the public to enjoy the prosperity of Shanghai’s vibrant culture.
