Yu Dan (academic)

Yu Dan (于丹, born June 28, 1965) is a Chinese media scholar, television personality, and author best known for her popular interpretations of the Analects of Confucius.

Yu Dan received her doctorate in media studies from Beijing Normal University. She teaches media studies and is a professor at the same university. Her research interests include media culture, communication, and classical Chinese literature.

Yu Dan achieved widespread fame in China in 2006 when she presented a series of lectures on the Analects on China Central Television (CCTV)'s Lecture Room program. Her accessible and modernized interpretations of Confucian teachings resonated with a large audience, making her a cultural icon. Her book, Yu Dan's Interpretation of the Analects (于丹《论语心得》), based on these lectures, became a bestseller.

Despite her popularity, Yu Dan's work has also faced criticism. Some scholars and intellectuals have argued that her interpretations are overly simplistic, superficial, and misrepresent the complexities of Confucian philosophy. They suggest her focus on practical life advice diminishes the historical and philosophical context of the Analects. She has also been criticized for commercializing traditional culture.

Yu Dan has authored several other books, including interpretations of Zhuangzi and Du Fu's poetry. She continues to be a prominent figure in Chinese media and culture, though her initial level of intense popularity has waned.