Dr. Liu Cixin, renowned for his science fiction work, engaged with faculty and students at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) during an event on October 18, 2025. This occasion coincided with HKUST”s Congregation 2025, where Dr. Liu was awarded an honorary doctorate, marking him as the first Asian writer to receive the prestigious Hugo Awards.
Later that day, Dr. Liu facilitated an enlightening dialogue session at the Lee Shau Kee Library. He conversed with Prof. Liu Jianmei, Chair Professor at the School of Humanities and Social Science, along with faculty, students, and alumni. During this session, Dr. Liu took the audience on a journey through the universe depicted in his acclaimed novel, The Three-Body Problem, exploring the philosophical themes and perspectives that inspired its creation.
While contemplating the future, Dr. Liu asserted that human civilization is consistently progressing. He emphasized that the primary aim of technological advancement should be to empower individuals rather than limit their potential. “Only when our technological civilization advances and material abundance is greatly enhanced,” he remarked, “can individuals truly gain the opportunity to achieve better development and a higher quality of life.”
Dr. Liu also reflected on the role of artificial intelligence, noting, “Humanity undoubtedly faces inherent limits, both intellectual and physical. Artificial intelligence, however, may have the capacity to transcend these boundaries, disseminating human civilization across the cosmos and realizing dreams that have long eluded us.”
This event transcended a simple knowledge exchange; it served as an inspiration, sparking curiosity and enthusiasm for exploration among the HKUST community. That evening, Prof. Harry Shum, Chairman of the HKUST Council, and Prof. Nancy IP, President of HKUST, hosted a dinner for Dr. Liu at a traditional dai pai dong in Sham Shui Po. They were joined by Dr. Choi Yuk-Lin, Secretary for Education of the HKSAR Government, Dr. John Chan Cho-Chak, HKUST Pro-Chancellor, and several other notable figures from the local cultural and academic sectors. Amidst a vibrant setting, they enjoyed authentic Cantonese cuisine while discussing various topics, including the development of Hong Kong”s creative industries and the cultivation of future talent.
