In addition, the anthology contains several essays in which Zhao addresses the issue of world peace from the perspective of traditional Chinese values and mores. These works reflect his profound understanding of traditional classical works as well as their practical value in the contemporary world.

The last several essays in the book, meanwhile, are Zhao's memoirs reminiscing about time spent with his mentors and friends—including well-known Chinese scholars Qian Duansheng and Wang Tieya, as well as American experts in Chinese studies such as Doak Barnett and Robert Scalapino.

The recollections of these interactions leave readers with warm and provocative impressions. From these writings, one sees Zhao's grateful admiration for his tutors as well as the indelible influences that they have left on his learning and personality.

Zhao has been the first person among China's political scientists to visit and lecture in more than 20 countries since reform and opening up was initiated.