Core Points - Renowned physicist Yang Zhenning, a Nobel Prize laureate and Chinese Academy of Sciences member, passed away on October 18 at the age of 103, prompting global tributes to his legacy [1][2] - Yang Zhenning is celebrated for his contributions to theoretical physics, particularly the parity violation law he proposed with Li Zhengdao in 1956, which earned them the Nobel Prize [1] - His work on the non-Abelian gauge field theory in 1954 is regarded as a pinnacle achievement in theoretical physics of the late 20th century [1] Group 1 - Yang Zhenning was praised by notable scientists such as Fermi and Oppenheimer for his extraordinary imagination and analytical skills during his time at Princeton [2] - He played a significant role in promoting science and education in China and globally, supporting various research initiatives and awards aimed at encouraging young innovators [2] - The "Chen Jiageng Youth Invention Award," which Yang advocated for in Singapore, has benefited countless young people over the past 40 years, fostering scientific exploration and innovation [2] Group 2 - Major Chinese universities and research institutions have expressed their condolences, highlighting Yang's significant academic achievements and his role in bridging China with the global scientific community [2] - Tsinghua University commemorated Yang's contributions, emphasizing his dual legacy belonging to both China and the world [2] - West Lake University published a tribute reflecting on how Yang inspired confidence and courage in pursuing science among future generations [2]

Core Viewpoint - The passing of Yang Zhenning represents a significant loss for the scientific community, but his legacy ignites a profound confidence in China's place in global science [1][2]. Group 1: Impact on National Confidence - Yang Zhenning's achievements, including the Yang-Mills theory and the parity violation law, have shattered the psychological barriers that Chinese scholars faced in engaging with top-tier global scientific discourse [2]. - His work has demonstrated that scientific excellence is not exclusive to Western civilization, instilling a sense of pride and capability within the Chinese scientific community [2]. Group 2: Pure Love for Science - Yang Zhenning epitomized a pure love for science, contrasting with the utilitarian view that often reduces science to a means for academic and career advancement [3]. - His lifelong passion for physics, even in his later years, reflects a deep-seated appreciation for the beauty and mystery of the universe [3]. Group 3: Essence of the Legacy - The essence of Yang Zhenning's legacy includes an intrinsic drive for exploration and an aesthetic appreciation for science, as evidenced by his challenge to established norms in physics [4]. - His courage to pursue innovative ideas, despite initial criticism, showcases a commitment to scientific integrity and perseverance [4]. - Yang's dedication to mentoring the next generation of scientists illustrates a sense of mission, emphasizing that his contributions belong to the broader human knowledge continuum [4]. Group 4: Continuation of His Legacy - The true commemoration of Yang Zhenning's legacy lies in nurturing the scientific spirit he embodied, which involves valuing inquiry, solitude in research, and the belief in the importance of ideas [5].

Core Insights - Yang Zhenning holds a unique position in both Chinese and global scientific communities, recognized for his significant contributions to modern physics and his role in enhancing Chinese self-confidence in science [1][3][16] Group 1: Early Life and Education - Yang Zhenning was born on October 1, 1922, in Hefei and spent his early years in a scholarly environment, influenced by his father, who was the first Chinese to earn a Ph.D. in mathematics from the University of Chicago [1][4] - His education was interrupted by the Second Sino-Japanese War, leading him to attend the National Southwestern Associated University, where he developed a strong foundation in physics [6][7] Group 2: Scientific Contributions - Yang Zhenning's major scientific achievements include the parity non-conservation theory, Yang-Mills theory, and the Yang-Baxter equation, which have established him as a master in theoretical physics [8][12][16] - The parity non-conservation theory, developed with Li Zhengdao, challenged the long-held belief in parity conservation in weak interactions, leading to Yang's Nobel Prize in Physics in 1957 [10][11] - The Yang-Mills theory unified electromagnetic, weak, and strong forces, providing a mathematical foundation for the Standard Model of particle physics [12][16] Group 3: Cultural Impact and Legacy - Yang Zhenning emphasized the aesthetic aspects of physics, believing that beauty in scientific theories is essential for understanding and discovery [13][14] - His life and work serve as a bridge between Eastern and Western cultures, reflecting a blend of traditional Chinese values and modern scientific inquiry [14][15] - After returning to China, Yang Zhenning dedicated himself to advancing Chinese science and education, establishing various academic programs and institutions [15][16]

Core Viewpoint - The article commemorates the life and contributions of Yang Zhenning, a Nobel Prize-winning physicist and academician, who passed away at the age of 103, highlighting his significant impact on physics and his dedication to promoting scientific exchange between China and the world [1][2]. Group 1: Academic Achievements - Yang Zhenning made substantial contributions to various fields of physics, including particle physics, field theory, statistical physics, and condensed matter physics, with notable works such as the Yang-Mills theory and the law of parity violation [2]. - His work led to the development of the Yang-Baxter equation, which opened new directions in both physics and mathematics [2]. Group 2: Influence on Chinese Science - Yang Zhenning played a pivotal role in fostering academic exchanges between China and the United States, being recognized as a key figure in this regard after his visit to China in 1971 [3]. - He renounced his U.S. citizenship in 2015 to become a full member of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, reflecting his commitment to China's scientific development [3]. Group 3: Personal Reflections and Legacy - Yang Zhenning expressed a deep sense of connection to China and reflected on the significance of his life and work, emphasizing the beauty and structure of physics [2][3]. - In his later years, he focused on mentoring young students at Tsinghua University, aiming to establish a high-level research center and train future generations of scientists [3][4].