Core Viewpoint - The discussions at the recent China Economic Annual Conference highlighted the need for economic research to be more relevant to real-world issues and policy challenges, emphasizing the importance of balancing practical application with theoretical exploration [3][4][6] Group 1: Economic Research Relevance - There is a consensus among scholars that economic research should respond to real-world issues and policy needs, but it should not equate policy demand with academic value [4] - The vitality of economics lies in both practical application and unique theoretical research, suggesting that an overemphasis on immediate applicability may marginalize long-term theoretical exploration [4][5] Group 2: Institutional Constraints - The current academic journal evaluation system is identified as a key constraint, shaping the standards and preferences of peer review, which may lead to a rigid adherence to certain methodologies [5] - The existing system is intertwined with the habits and interests of the academic community, making reform challenging and requiring sincere self-reflection and dialogue within the community [5] Group 3: Scholar Development - Young scholars face the expectation to excel in both theoretical and policy-oriented research, but the demands of each path differ significantly, leading to potential career anxiety [5] - There is a call for recognition of diverse career paths within the evaluation mechanisms, allowing both theoretical innovators and practical experts to receive fair acknowledgment and foster collaboration [5][6] Group 4: Future Directions - The discussions reflect a collective concern within the economics community about how to engage with reality while maintaining independent critical thinking and a broader perspective [6] - There is a need for the academic community to actively drive change rather than passively adapt, and to create a more flexible ecosystem that supports diverse talents and research interests [6]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the challenges faced by Chinese scholars in winning Nobel Prizes, particularly in economics and natural sciences, and emphasizes the importance of practical research and problem-solving over merely seeking awards [4][10][15]. Group 1: Nobel Prize in Economics - The Nobel Prize in Economics is awarded primarily for methodological innovations and significant theoretical contributions [9]. - This year's winners highlighted the central role of innovation in economic development, with one using historical data to demonstrate the importance of knowledge innovation [3]. - The recognition of Chinese economic practices and achievements is crucial for Chinese scholars to gain prominence in the field of economics [9][10]. Group 2: Nobel Prize in Natural Sciences - The standards for the Nobel Prize in Natural Sciences have evolved, now favoring long-term experimental results over revolutionary ideas [6]. - Japan's success in winning Nobel Prizes in natural sciences is attributed to its cultural and economic focus on sustained experimental research [6]. - China is expected to produce more Nobel laureates in natural sciences in the future due to its significant investments and research capabilities [8]. Group 3: Research and Practical Issues - The article stresses the need for Chinese researchers to focus on solving real-world problems, such as trade tensions and economic vitality, rather than solely pursuing awards [15]. - It argues that addressing practical issues will ultimately lead to valuable research contributions and recognition [15][16]. - The unique experiences and data accumulated from China's economic development present opportunities for significant contributions to global economic theories [18].

Core Viewpoint - The 34th "Liberation Book List" was officially launched at the Shanghai Book Fair, showcasing 10 newly published books that combine depth of thought and reading value, aiming to provide readers with a diverse selection of reading choices [1] Summary by Category Historical Works - "China's War of Resistance" presents a comprehensive view of the Chinese people's struggle during the Anti-Japanese War, helping readers draw strength from the spirit of resistance and enhance historical confidence [1] - "The Great Navigation of the Arabs: From Ancient to Early Medieval" highlights the overlooked maritime civilization, challenging Western-centric narratives and emphasizing the crucial role of Arabs in the development of maritime civilization [1] Future and Technology - Nick Bostrom's "Future of the Land: The Purpose and Meaning of Humanity in the Age of Superintelligence" raises philosophical questions about human existence and provides insights into future evolution [1] American Studies - Michael C. Desch's "The Irrelevance of American Social Science to National Security" analyzes the complex relationship between academia and politics, revealing the deeper logic behind the decline of American social science's influence [1] - Robert Zoellick's "On America: A History of American Diplomacy and Foreign Policy" offers a panoramic narrative of American diplomacy from the perspective of an experienced diplomat, providing valuable insights into changes in U.S. foreign policy [1] Economics - "Money and Government: A Challenge to Mainstream Economics" by Skidelsky challenges mainstream paradigms and reexamines the core roles of money and government in economic operations, offering insights into the current global economic predicament [1] Literature and Culture - A Lai's "Source of the Great River" poetically depicts the natural and cultural landscapes of river sources, representing a journey towards the roots of Chinese civilization [1] - "Virtual Society: Metaverse and Post-Human Experience" discusses the challenges of the digital age, emphasizing the need to leverage virtual tools to empower humanity [1] Contemporary Chinese Practices - "Milk Tea Going Global: The Global Expansion of New Chinese Tea Brands" documents stories of commercial innovation, highlighting the importance of embracing open innovation while maintaining core cultural values [1] - Huang Xiaofeng's "The Peddler's Map: Small Vendors and Big History" decodes the historical narrative from an art history perspective, emphasizing continuity in human experience rather than viewing history as a series of disjointed events [1]

Core Viewpoint - The first deputy managing director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Gita Gopinath, is set to leave her position and return to Harvard University to focus on economic research [1] Group 1 - Gita Gopinath has played a significant role at the IMF during her tenure [1] - Her departure marks a notable change in the leadership structure of the IMF [1] - The transition back to academia indicates a shift in her career focus towards research [1]