关键词: 自由联合, 和合思想, 高度契合, 融合创新

Abstract: Based on the idea of “true community”, Marx's theory of free association clarifies the two basic characteristics of individual freedom and social association in the future socialist society, and puts forward a scientific viewpoint to realize social harmony and social association. The ancient Chinese thought of harmony based on the concept of “unity without uniformity” includes progressive concepts such as acknowledging individual differences, affirming social harmony and advocating integrated development. There are not only important differences but also internal consistency and high compatibility between Marx's idea of free association and the harmony thought of ancient Chinese scholars. Therefore, we should integrate Marx's theory of free association with the ancient Chinese idea of harmony, so that the two can complement each other and become integrated and innovative. On the one hand, efforts should be made to excavate and absorb ancient Chinese ideas of harmony, so that Marx's theory of free association can be nourished by rich Chinese culture, which will give a strong impetus to theoretical innovation of Marx's theory of free association to be adapted to the Chinese context and to our times. On the other hand, the power of truth from Marx's theory of free association activates the long-standing ancient Chinese idea of harmony, which will brim with renewed vitality, and vigorously promotes the practical innovation of building the association of free individuals in contemporary China with Chinese characteristics and Chinese style. 

Key words: free association, harmonious thought, conformity, integration and innovation;