Abstract: In most cases, studies on Lin Yutang adopt such perspectives as western culture and traditional Chinese culture. His contribution to the May Fourth New Culture, however, has long been ignored by domestic scholars, thus never carrying due weight. Lin, through his taking advantage of modern linguistics, filled the gap in pushing forward the emerging culture and fulfilled his aspiration, like Hu Shi, one pioneer, to serve for the revolution in the classical Chinese. In addition to his radical thoughts on culture, Lin also bore the traits of tolerance and inclusiveness told by his critical attitudes towards viewpoints and positions of his oppositions, though he had divided opinions with those who took the lead in the May Fourth New Culture Movement. A study on Lin’s contribution, therefore, helps relocate and thus enrich the May Fourth New culture, which will further shed light on our all-round interpretation and strategic conversion of western culture, traditional Chinese culture and profile of the May Fourth New Culture.

Key words: Lin Yu-tang, the May Fourth New Culture, radical thoughts, inclusiveness, strategic conversion