On March 15, 2025, Ma Man Kei and Lo Pak Sam College (MLC) came alive with an engaging seminar titled “Exploring the Fields, A Quest for Memory.” The seminar was hosted by MLC’s College Master, Professor Yang Liu, and featured renowned historian and UM Chair Professor SUN Jiang as the speaker. Master Yang’s emphasis on the importance of understanding cultural memory in contemporary society ignited the passion for learning among the participants. The event attracted 40 enthusiastic attendees, including scholars, undergraduates, and postgraduates.
Professor Sun Jiang’s lecture was rich and engaging. He emphasized the key role of fieldwork in revealing collective memory and cultural practices. Using examples from his own research, he demonstrated how direct interaction with communities fosters a deeper understanding of their historical context. Professor Sun detailed the various steps of fieldwork, including formulating research questions, building rapport with participants, and employing multiple methods such as interviews and participant observation. The seminar further explored the complex interactions of historical memory. Professor Sun examined several key theories, including Aleida Assmann and Jan Assmann’s concepts of cultural memory and communicative memory. In this seminar, he made a concerted effort to simplify the complex concepts of “fieldwork” and “memory” for the audience. His meticulous explanations were highly appreciated by the attendees.
Professor Sun highlighted the dual role of technology in both preserving and distorting memories, leading participants to actively engage in dialogue about how personal narratives may be at risk of erosion or transformation in the digital age. Notably, two student co-speakers, Duan Jiatong and Wang Yaomin, posed important questions that enriched the discussion, prompting reflections on the implications of digital technology for personal narratives. Wang raised a critical question regarding how widespread misinformation on the internet can distort the accuracy of memory. Professor Sun agreed and believed that there is indeed a need for research on internet memory. He also mentioned that Wang’s awareness of this issue reflects that this generation of humanity has not yet been completely engulfed by the internet and AI, though it is uncertain what the future holds.
Overall, the forum provided a rich and engaging platform for participants to delve into the complexities of cultural memory and its relevance in today’s landscape. Prof. Sun’s ability to weave together theoretical frameworks with practical examples from his own research captivated the audience, inspiring them to consider the implications of their own experiences in shaping cultural narratives. The seminar successfully fostered an environment of interaction and inquiry between teachers and students, highlighting Professor Sun’s invaluable contribution to the discourse on memory and identity and to the nurturing of students.
