Peking University, April 28, 2023: What is paleontology and how is it relevant to us? (Editor's note: Paleontology is the study of fossils as a way of getting information about the history of life on earth and the structure of rocks.) This is the crux of the lecture delivered by Zhou Zhonghe on April 22, 2023, titled “Why should we still pay attention to paleontology?”. As the inaugural lecture of the Li Siguang Lecture Series, the lecture was jointly organized by the Peking University (PKU) School of Earth and Space Sciences and Peking University Press. Zhou is a research fellow with the National Academy of Sciences and the Chinese Academy of Sciences and a member of the Standing Committee of the 14th Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference. 

Lecture by Zhou Zhonghe

Zhou focused his lecture on the importance of paleontology by highlighting various examples of how paleontology provides insights into various research fields, including stratigraphy, geology and evolutionary biology. For example, the discovery of fossils by paleontologists generates new evidence in support of the theory of evolution.

Zhou also emphasized that paleontology provides an important gateway to understanding the humanities, societal progress, history, and offers insights for the future. Only by understanding evolution, can we then answer the age-old philosophical questions of “Who are we?”, “Where did we come from?”, and “Where are we headed?”

Zhou answering questions from the audience

During the lecture, faculty and students also had the opportunity to interact with Zhou. Questions concerning field investigation work, the teaching of paleontology, the rationality of various research methodologies, and climate change were fielded. Zhou provided insightful responses to the questions raised and he expressed his support for and recognition of the inquisitiveness of the students.

Zhou was presented with a token of appreciation.

The “Li Siguang Lecture Series,” named after PKU Professor Li Siguang who pioneered China’s modern geoscience and geology research, aims to facilitate academic exchange and promote research innovation in the fields of Earth and planetary science by inviting renowned experts and scholars from various fields to deliver guest lectures. 

The premiere of the lecture series was also held in conjunction with the inaugural Earth and Planetary Science Culture Week organized by PKU School of Earth and Space Sciences from April 22-30, 2023, which celebrates the achievements and developments in the field. As part of the Culture Week, guided tours at the Geological Museum of PKU and other thematic activities will be held.

Written by: Ang Shao Heng
Edited by: Su Huangyi
Source: PKU News (Chinese)