Core Viewpoint - The article commemorates the life and contributions of Yang Zhenning, a renowned physicist and Nobel laureate, who passed away at the age of 103, highlighting his significant impact on physics and his deep connection to his homeland [1]. Group 1: Early Life and Education - Yang Zhenning was born in 1922 in Hefei, Anhui, and was influenced by his father, a scholar in modern number theory and algebra [2]. - He spent his childhood in Tsinghua Garden, where he developed an early interest in science, inspired by a book on the latest discoveries in physics [4]. - Yang Zhenning's education continued at Southwest Associated University during the war, where he excelled academically, ranking second among over 20,000 candidates [4]. Group 2: Academic Achievements - Yang Zhenning made groundbreaking contributions to physics, including the Yang-Mills theory and the theory of parity non-conservation in weak interactions, for which he received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1957 [11][12]. - His work in statistical mechanics led to the development of the Yang-Baxter equation, earning him the Onsager Prize, a prestigious award in physics [12]. Group 3: Contributions to China’s Scientific Development - Yang Zhenning played a crucial role in bridging international scientific communities and introducing modern scientific concepts to China after returning in 1971 [15]. - He advocated for the importance of "developmental research" in China, influencing the country's "863 Program" aimed at advancing high-tech research [18]. - Yang Zhenning established the Tsinghua University Institute for Advanced Study, contributing significantly to the development of theoretical physics and mathematics in China [19]. Group 4: Educational Philosophy and Talent Development - He promoted ideas such as "generalist education" and hands-on training, recommending over 1,200 scholars for overseas training to enhance academic exchange [21]. - Yang Zhenning emphasized the need for strategic allocation of research funding, advising against investments in large particle colliders in favor of more pressing scientific fields [21]. Group 5: Legacy - Yang Zhenning's contributions extend beyond physics; he provided a strategic framework for respecting scientific principles and efficiently allocating technological resources, impacting future generations [23].