The publication of a cosmological paper in 1972 marked the return of modern scientific inquiry into the origins of the universe within mainland China. Authored by Fang Lizhi, this work defied contemporary ideological constraints that labeled relativistic cosmology as contradictory to dialectical materialism, effectively restarting a field of study that had been dormant for years.
Early Scientific Career
Born in 1936, Fang began his academic path at Peking University in 1952. His early career involved clandestine work on the atomic bomb program following his graduation. During the late 1950s, he faced significant professional obstacles after being labeled a rightist during the Anti-Rightist Campaign, which led to his removal from nuclear research and forced labor assignments in Zanhuang. He eventually resumed his career at the University of Science and Technology of China, where he navigated shifting political environments to publish research across particle, solid state, and laser physics.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Cosmology During Political Turmoil
During the Cultural Revolution, Fang faced severe disruptions, including evacuation from Beijing to Hefei in 1969 and manual labor in coal mines and brick factories. Despite these conditions, he studied general relativity independently. By 1972, he resumed formal academic work, producing foundational research in cosmology. He established a research group at the University of Science and Technology of China, mentoring students in astrophysics despite the persistent political risks of investigating theories deemed contrary to state ideology.
Activism and Academic Exile
Fang rose to prominence in the 1980s as a proponent of intellectual freedom, which influenced the student movements of 1986–87 and the 1989 protests. His public advocacy resulted in his expulsion from the Chinese Communist Party in 1987 and the loss of his position at the Chinese Academy of Sciences after 1989. These activities earned him international recognition, including the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Award in 1989 and the Freedom Award in 1991.
Later Years in the United States
In his later career, Fang continued his contributions to astrophysics while based in the United States. He joined the University of Arizona, where he remained an active researcher and teacher. His commitment to outreach and human rights was further acknowledged in 1996 with the Dwight Nicholson Medal. Fang died in Tucson in 2012 and was interred at the East Lawn Palms Cemetery and Mortuary.
Fast facts
- Born: 1936, Beijing
- Died: 2012, Tucson
- Alma mater: Peking University; University of Science and Technology of China
- Professional fields: Astrophysics; particle physics
- Notable honor: Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Award (1989)
- Final resting place: East Lawn Palms Cemetery and Mortuary
Questions readers ask
What was the significance of Fang Lizhi’s 1972 paper?
It was the first modern cosmological research paper published in mainland China, effectively reviving the field of study after the disruptions of the Cultural Revolution.
Why did Fang Lizhi lose his position at the Chinese Academy of Sciences?
His role as a leader of the 1980s New Enlightenment and his influence on the 1989 pro-democracy protests led to the revocation of his academic status.
Achievements
- Held posts at Peking University, University of Arizona and University of Science and Technology of China
- Educated at Peking University and University of Science and Technology of China
- Fields of research: astrophysics
