Once, science fiction served as a prophecy of the future. Today, technology is transforming these visions into our lived reality at an unprecedented pace. As both an extrapolation of scientific frontiers and a realm of imagination, science fiction continually expands the boundaries of human understanding, while rapidly evolving technology constantly reshapes the form of science fiction itself. In these dual currents of progress, how will science fiction envision the future for us?
On October 18, 2025, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) held its Congregation 2025, conferring an honorary doctorate upon Mr. LIU Cixin, the first Asian writer to win the prestigious Hugo Awards. That same afternoon, Dr. Liu Cixin hosted an engaging dialogue session at the HKUST Lee Shau Kee Library where he held an in-depth discussion with Prof. LIU Jianmei, Chair Professor of the Division of Humanities of the School of Humanities and Social Science at HKUST, as well as attending faculty, students, and alumni.
Dr. Liu guided the HKUST community on an exploration of the vast universe within his seminal work, The Three-Body Problem, delving into the philosophical ideas and worldview that underpin its creation.
When discussing the future, Dr. Liu emphasized that human civilization is on a continuous upward trajectory. He stated that the ultimate goal of technology should be to liberate humanity, not to constrain personal growth. "Only when our technological civilization advances and material abundance is greatly enhanced," he noted, "can individuals truly gain the opportunity to achieve better development and a higher quality of life."
He further reflected on the potential of artificial intelligence, observing, "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."
From the sources of inspiration and the enduring charm of sci-fi narratives to AI's influence on creativity and visions of the future in the big data era, Dr. Liu's unique insights broadened the intellectual horizons of the HKUST community. This event was more than a mere knowledge exchange; it was a spark of imagination, igniting curiosity and a renewed enthusiasm for exploring the unknown among HKUST students and faculty.
Experience the Favours and Culture of Hong Kong at Traditional Dai Pai Dong
That evening, HKUST Council Chairman Prof. Harry SHUM and President Prof. Nancy IP hosted a dinner for Dr. Liu Cixin 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 friends from the local cultural and academic sectors. Against the vibrant backdrop of the local eatery, they enjoyed authentic Cantonese dishes and conversed on topics ranging from the growth of Hong Kong's creative industries to the nurturing of future talent.
