Annals of the Chinese Dynasties

Author: CCTV "One Hundred Lectures" Program Group
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-03-01
Features: On July 9, 2001, at noon, when ordinary university students packed their backpacks and left the classroom, a special, open "university" quietly began its sessions. What made it special was its educational philosophy: "lectures by renowned scholars and teachers at home and abroad, covering scientific, humanistic, and social content." Its educational concept was: "gathering intellectual elites, sharing educational resources, spreading modern culture, and promoting the spirit of science and humanity." Its pursuit was: "combining academic rigor with practicality, emphasizing both authority and avant-garde perspectives, pursuing academic innovation, encouraging individual thought, advocating accessibility to all, and valuing interactive communication." Its goal was: "constructing common knowledge of the era and enjoying a life of wisdom." As for its openness—it offered admission without exams or tests, had no age or status restrictions; "a passion for knowledge" was the only requirement for enrollment. Which "university" was this? "One Hundred Lectures." Where was "One Hundred Lectures"? China Central Television Channel 10. Highly advanced television technology has given humanity a shortcut, allowing us to have such a close connection with knowledge! The names of Yang Zhenning, Lee Tsung-Dao, Ding Zhongzhang, Zhou Ruchang, Ye Jiaying, Bai Chunli, Li Yining, Feng Jicai, and Long Yingtai echoed on the stage built by light and shadow, transmitting the spirit of humanity. This spirit is the driving force behind the continuation of civilization and the foundation of human survival. Let knowledge be tangible, let thoughts be touchable, and let scholars from around the world share the same experience in the sacred hall of light and shadow—we truly believe that possessing knowledge is indeed a blessing. After more than a thousand sunrises and sunsets, the greatest achievement of "One Hundred Lectures" was over 700 heavy tapes. For a television program, 700 sessions of 45 minutes each is a considerable duration, especially when it records the essence of human thought. How can we promote and spread these profound thoughts? We thought of publishing—a way that is both collectible and convenient for study. With the strong support of China Renmin University Press, we selected the content of 500 lectures to produce CDs, which were published in series; at the same time, we published nearly 30 related books to meet the diverse intellectual needs of those who love knowledge. China Renmin University Press called this "major initiative" a "monumental achievement" in 2004, and we should sincerely express our gratitude for their hard work. Viewers and readers, let us shake hands in the inheritance of knowledge!