In September 2023, the Chinese translation of Alexander von Humboldt's work Cosmos, translated by our center member Ms. Gao Hong and published by Peking University Press, marked a significant milestone in the fields of literature and science. This renowned work by the explorer and naturalist challenged traditional disciplinary boundaries by merging knowledge from different domains into a comprehensive and revolutionary masterpiece, exploring the interconnectedness of the universe and receiving widespread acclaim. As Humboldt stated in the book's preface, "Nature is a living whole, with organic life forming an exquisite network of interconnections."

Upon its initial publication in 1845, Cosmos quickly became a bestseller, selling over twenty thousand copies within a few months. It was subsequently translated into multiple languages, including English, French, and Russian. The introduction of Humboldt's Cosmos to Chinese readers is an event of great significance, fostering a deeper understanding of Humboldt's groundbreaking contributions to the fields of science and literature. It serves as a bridge between cultures and validates the enduring impact of Humboldt's ideas about the interconnectedness of nature.

This outstanding literary and scientific work is expected to inspire a new generation of Chinese readers, scholars, and thinkers while also contributing to the ongoing global dialogue on the unity and complexity of the natural world.