Our Story
In the Beginning
In fall 2017, a group of like-minded people decided to embark on passion-project to fill their weekends and some of their nights. We wanted to preserve and to share marvelous creations of the human spirit with the upcoming generation and, moreover, find an enjoyable and worthwhile way for like-minded friends to share time together.
Over time, we created over 170 videos, with content ranging from recitations of poetry to music education and book and film reviews. In spite of difficulties over the years–responsibilities to families, work, and life in general– our group worked hard to stick together under our common interests. Those who are curious can see our videos here: Ming Arete Youtube Channel
Today
Over the course of the last year, and particularly since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have come to feel that it is time to recommence our project, this time on a more professional level and with a deeper commitment.
We believe that reliable information about the greatest productions of the human spirit should be available to all, at prices that ordinary people can afford, and stripped of any intrusive social or political agenda. Believing, as we do, that learning is an intrinsically joyful activity and that art and the life of the mind are the true and rightful patrimony of all who feel drawn to them, we hope to expose our users to material the will enrich their lives, not to tell them how those lives should be lived.
Our Name
The name Ming Aretê embodies the fusion of two profound concepts—one Eastern, one Western—united to represent the universal human pursuit of clarity, understanding, excellence, and virtue.
The Chinese character 明 (míng) is formed by combining the symbols for sun (日) and moon (月), evoking light, brightness, and illumination. It appears in words such as 聪明 (cōngmíng, “intelligent”), 明白 (míngbai, “to understand”), and 明德 (míngdé, “highest virtue”). At its core, míng signifies the power of insight and the illumination of the mind and spirit.
The Greek word ἀρετή (aretê) translates as “goodness,” “excellence,” or “moral virtue.” In ancient Greek thought, especially in Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics, aretê is not just about right action, but about realizing one’s highest potential—becoming the best version of oneself.
Together, Ming Aretê stands for the enlightened pursuit of virtue and excellence. Our mission is to spread illumination—sharing content that inspires personal growth, deepens understanding, and enriches both your life and the lives of those around you.
Our Mission
Latin: humanitas — meaning “human nature; the human race, mankind” and also “humane conduct, philanthropy, kindness, good breeding, refinement.” The root humanus comes from homo, meaning “man” or “person”.
These days, the world is fixated on the AI race—companies are investing hundreds of billions in artificial intelligence, introducing AI friends, companions, and instructors. Many crafted earlier apps that purposefully drew in generations through persuasive design, now applying similar tactics with AI to drive unhealthy engagement and dependency, especially among youth.
At Ming Aretê, we take a different path: we celebrate heritages and foster humanity, helping generations uncover what it truly means to be human. We honor heritages by showcasing the world’s greatest artistic achievements across all forms—literature, music, dance, art, and more.
Our mission goes further: we aim to turn online connections into genuine, offline friendships. Ming Aretê encourages meaningful interactions that move beyond screens, empowering people to build real relationships, strengthen communities, and rediscover face-to-face connection in a digital age.