Science salon explores how key, core tech could shape future

Scientists, technology experts and investors gathered in Beijing on Sep 2 to explore how advances in key and core technologies could reshape industries and influence the future development of human civilization.

The 13th Cape of Good Hope Science Salon — themed on the "Key & Core Technology Wave" — was held at the Academic Hall of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS).

The event was also the first thematic seminar following the publication of Mi Lei's book Key & Core Technology Wave in July. Nearly 300 participants from government, universities and research institutions, technology companies, investment institutions and the media attended.

Among the participants were Konstantin Novoselov, 2010 Nobel Prize winner in physics; Chen Liquan, laureate of China's top sci-tech award; Chen Wei, chairman of CITIC Press Group; and Mi Lei, author of Key & Core Technology Wave and founding partner of Casstar.

Drawing on nearly six decades of research, Chen said key and core technologies are rooted in basic research, while turning scientific discoveries into technologies, products and markets is far more difficult than expected. He also highlighted the importance of developing cleaner, more stable and more efficient energy systems to pave the way for future industrial competition.

Novoselov discussed the evolution of materials from stone and bronze to iron, silicon and nuclear materials — saying materials have long served as markers of human civilization. He pointed to composite materials, heterogeneous structures and atomic-level engineering as potential directions for future technological breakthroughs.

The author, Mi, shared his views on technology investment and the evolution of civilization, drawing on his 16-year exploration of key & core technology. He said hard-tech projects often face long R&D cycles, low early-stage revenue and valuation challenges — highlighting the need for long-term investment and patient capital.

He also introduced his proposed "ESK value investing" framework, which incorporates knowledge value alongside economic and social value.

The salon also brought together experts in artificial intelligence, quantum technology, controlled nuclear fusion, brain-computer interfaces, atomic manufacturing and science fiction — to discuss emerging technologies and their potential impact on society and the future of human civilization.