Exploring Global Challenges and Uncertainties: Insights from GEC March Global Top Scientists Forum with Professor Jonathan Michie
Develop. Grow. Succeed.
On March 13, GEC Academy successfully hosted the Global Top Scientists Forum featuring an insightful online open lecture presented by Professor Jonathan Michie, Professor of Innovation and Knowledge Exchange, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, and President of Kellogg College at the University of Oxford. With a theme of Current Crises and How to Respond, Professor Michie delved into the significant factors that impact global stability and sustainability, like climate change, widening wealth disparities, regional conflict, etc., and how these problems affect our normal lives. This lecture further led a constructive discussion on the underlying logic of these problems and provided practical coping strategies on what we can do to effectively tackle the global challenges we are facing today.
Professor Michie Introducing the Overview of the Lecture
In his compelling lecture, Professor Michie emphasized the interconnected nature of today’s world, highlighting that the instability currently affecting the global economy amid the trend of globalization extends beyond national borders and it is necessary to find a unified global response. He asserted that perceiving globalization solely as either completely advantageous or disadvantageous is misleading. Instead, he advocated for a nuanced comprehension that acknowledges both the advantages and complexities inherent in this ever-evolving landscape of globalization.
Professor Michie Explaining Keynes’s Arguments
While talking about the relationship between the market force and regulations, Professor Michie referenced the seminal work The General Theory of Employment, Interest and Money by John Maynard Keynes. He lauded Keynes’ incisive perspectives and analytical methodologies, which still provide crucial guidance in navigating contemporary issues such as economic volatility, financial market instability, and the intricate challenges posed by globalization itself.
Regarding how to respond to global challenges, particularly in areas of climate change, sustainable urban development, and public health, Professor Michie emphasized the necessity for global cooperation for a significantly healthier and more sustainable future for all. He also highlighted the significance of lifelong learning as a key strategy in tackling these crises. Lifelong learning, he noted, is essential for equipping individuals with the adaptability, innovative mindset, and creative skills required to navigate our constantly evolving world. “We should all recognize the important role that universities have got to play in this whole process”, he added, “Universities contribute to the economy through their research, developing new products and processes, and that's important for all sorts of reasons, including developing more environmentally friendly products and processes.”
In the final segment of the open lecture, the Q&A session with Professor Michie sparked a dynamic exchange, addressing pressing economic issues. Students eagerly sought insights into achieving a smooth economic transition, strategies for China’s real estate industry, and the EU’s response to Brexit. Professor Michie’s discussion was punctuated by Keynes remark, “There are all sorts of unknowns and uncertainties.” He emphasized the crucial role of long-term governmental vision and certainty in building confidence among consumers and investors, ensuring economic stability, as well as underscored the necessity of continual investments in education, innovation, and other sectors to fortify long-term economic confidence and resilience.
Moving forward, the upcoming GEC Global Top Scientists Forum will continue to offer students a unique opportunity to engage with renowned global scholars and experts, including Nobel laureates, officials from international organizations, and professors from esteemed universities all around the world. By providing open lectures focusing on cutting-edge technology and humanistic knowledge, we strive to contribute to cultivating a new generation of talent equipped with a global perspective and a sense of responsibility.
For those who might be interested in working with GEC, please feel free to contact our outreach specialist, Katrina, at katrina.wang@gecacademy.com. GEC faculty who are interested in giving a speech at the next Global Top Scientists Forum should contact their academic manager. For anyone who would like to access the recording of this lecture, please feel free to get in touch with us for the link.