On January 29, the School of Foreign Languages hosted a session of Southeast University’s “Global Distinguished Scholars Lecture Series” in Conference Room 821. The event featured Professor Stuart Firestein, a neurocognitive scientist, former Chair of the Department of Biological Sciences at Columbia University, as the keynote speaker. Centered on the theme “Ignorance, Uncertainty, Doubt, and Failure: Why Science Is So Optimistic”, Professor Firestein delivered a thought-provoking lecture that combined philosophical reflection with cutting-edge scientific inquiry. The event was co-moderated by Professor Zhou Tongquan and Professor Wu Jinjin and attracted faculty and students from both the School of Foreign Languages and the School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering.
Professor Firestein began with an exploration of the epistemological boundaries of scientific knowledge, offering a systematic analysis of the crucial roles that ignorance, uncertainty, doubt, and failure play in advancing scientific progress. He further illuminated the optimistic spirit and driving force underlying these seemingly negative concepts. During the interactive session, participants engaged enthusiastically in discussion, raising questions on topics such as career paths in science and educational methodology. In her concluding remarks, Professor Wu Jinjin observed that the lecture not only deepened the audience’s understanding of the nature of science but also stimulated further reflection on the integration of science and the humanities.
Following the lecture, the School of Foreign Languages organized a roundtable seminar to further extend the exchange. Attending the seminar were Dean Liu Kehua, Vice Dean Cheng Si, Professor Zhou Tongquan, and Professor Wu Jinjin, who joined Professor Firestein for an in-depth discussion. The conversation focused on interdisciplinary education, international collaboration in scientific research, and the cultivation of innovative talent.
The event highlighted the achievements of the School of Foreign Languages at Southeast University in fostering an international and forward-looking academic environment. The School will continue to build upon its high-level academic platforms by inviting leading scholars from around the world, advancing international academic exchange and talent development, and promoting interdisciplinary integration and dialogue. Through these sustained efforts, it aims to cultivate innovative leading talents equipped with critical thinking skills, scientific literacy, and a global perspective.
Text: Wang Ying
Photos: Fan Zhouyi
Editor: Zhang Tingting
