Abstract The Western influence in Chinese education is interwoven and complicated. It is difficult to determine accurately which ingredients from the West contributed to the change or reform of which aspect or portion of education in modern China. The present study focuses on some philosophies and educational theories which have had a significant influence on forming some basic educational concepts and ideas in modern China. One of these is John Dewey's pragmatism. The introduction of Dewey's philosophy into China, Dewey's visit to China, the relation of Dewey's philosophy to Neo-Confucianism, its relation to Sun Yat-senism, and its influence on educational reform movements have been sketched. The analysis of John Dewey's basic educational concepts is given in order to clarify what he really said and meant, so that educational implications for modern China can be drawn, in addition to Dewey's important works on education, some of his lectures in China which became available in English in 1973 are consulted. Prior to the description of John Dewey's philosophy of education, a general review is taken on the introduction of Western culture into China. The study points out that Chinese philosophy of education and other aspects of culture presently are undergoing a transformation , trying to integrate the merits of Western and Chinese cultures, thus constructing a new mind. The similarities and even the differences between John Dewey's philosophy and Confucianism, Neo-Confucianism as well as Sun Yat-senism can contribute to the integration.