The Needham Conference 2024, themed "Science and Civilization: The Magnetic Compass and Maritime Navigation," commenced at Sun Yat-sen University (SYSU) in Guangzhou on December 9.

This prestigious event brought together the Joseph Needham Foundation for Science and Civilization (Hong Kong), the Needham Research Institute (Cambridge), and SYSU' s Institute for Advanced Studies in Humanities, and gathered scholars and experts from around the world to explore the historical significance of the magnetic compass and its crucial role in the maritime navigation and the birth of modern civilization.

The conference was held to commemorate the 124th birthday of Dr. Joseph Needham, a groundbreaking British scientist, historian, and humanist, who bridged Eastern and Western cultures through his monumental work, Science and Civilization in China, which demonstrated China's profound contributions to modern science and technology.

Prof. Shi Xie, vice president of SYSU, Prof. Yang Wang, vice president of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, and Prof. Cheng Dong, associate vice president of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, attended the opening ceremony. Prof. Fangyi Cheng, associate dean of SYSU’s Institute for Advanced Studies in Humanities, presided over the ceremony.

In his opening remarks, Prof. Shi Xie emphasized the deep historical ties between SYSU and Dr. Joseph Needham, noting Needham's visit to SYSU during the Sino-Japanese War when the university had temporarily relocated to Pingshi in Northern Guangdong Province. Needham's interactions with SYSU scholars during that challenging period laid the foundation for his seminal work, Science and Civilization in China. Prof. Shi Xie highlighted that the conference is an opportunity to honor this legacy and promote international academic cooperation in the spirit of innovation and global engagement.

Prof. Shi Xie, vice president of SYSU, delivers an opening speech.

Dr. Peter L. Lee, chairman of the Joseph Needham Foundation for Science and Civilization, delivered a keynote speech, expressing his gratitude for SYSU's meticulous organization. He underscored the pivotal role of science in the development of modern civilizations and its enduring connection with societal progress. Dr. Lee further stressed the global significance of Needham's vision for fostering cross-civilization dialogue as well as scientific and technological collaboration.

Dr. Peter L. Lee, chairman of the Joseph Needham Foundation for Science and Civilization delivers a keynote speech.

Professor Robin Yates from McGill University delivered the 14th Joseph Needham Memorial Lecture, introducing the enduring impact of Needham's work on contemporary studies in science history.

Prof. Yates gives a lecture.

With themes “Science as a Multi-Civilizational Process” and “The Magnetic Compass: Forging New Dialogues Across Civilizations,” two roundtable discussions were held, aimed at inspiring diverse perspectives and insights among scholars.

Roundtable Discussion

This international conference, featuring scholars from renowned institutions worldwide, underscores SYSU's dedication to academic excellence and global engagement. It represents a vital step for SYSU's development of a world-class university with Chinese characteristics while fostering meaningful exchanges across civilizations.

Conference group photo