Prof. Xiaobo Cong, a faculty member of IRISE delivered an online lecture at the Tianjin Foreign Studies University in China

On June 13, Professor Xiaobo Cong, a faculty member of IRISE, was invited to deliver an online lecture titled “The Potential of Japanese Studies from a Humanities Perspective” by the Tianjin Foreign Language University Japanese Language Institute, China, as part of its special lecture series. There were approximately 70 participants, including faculty members, master’s and doctoral students, as well as undergraduate students.

Based on her own research experience and the two concepts of humanities and social sciences, along with regional and country-specific studies as key perspectives, Prof Cong emphasized the interdisciplinary nature of these two concepts and the importance of the humanities in understanding society and human beings in the age of AI. With the theme of “happiness,” she expressed her views on the current state and future development of Japanese studies, citing Ikeda’s philosophy as an example and highlighting its characteristics, as well as the importance of understanding Ikeda’s idea of happiness from various perspectives.

Professor Cong's presentation thoroughly explored the intersection of diverse humanities disciplines and new possibilities for Japanese studies in the AI age. This offered valuable opportunities and clear directions for faculty and students to enhance their future research output and exchange experiences. The lecture is featured on the Japanese Language Institute and the university's graduate school website.