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Computers, smart phones, cloud computing and intelligent robots all embody the concept of innovation as embedded in Laozi’s (老子) theories of nature- you (有） and wu (無), or, the Real and Virtual. In this talk, Dr. Lin explains why the teachings of this sagacious sixth century BCE Chinese philosopher are extremely precious for nurturing scientific innovation - the application of science to create new value or new wealth. He will also highlight Laozi’s concepts of respect, trust, and diversity and discuss why all are fundamental to innovation sustainability.

Otto Chui-Chau Lin has been a leading figure in advocating the creation of innovation systems in Taiwan, Hong Kong, and China. From 1987-1994, he served as President of Taiwan's Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI), a consortium of applied technology laboratories dedicated to the development of Taiwan's high-tech industry into fields such as semiconductors, automation, integrated circuit testing, optical electronic systems, consumer electronics, composite materials, and specialty chemicals. From 1997-2007, Lin served as Vice-President for Research and Development at Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), spearheading the creation of the Nansha IT Park to promote technology development in the Pearl River Delta. After his retirement in 2009, Lin has continued to lecture, consult, and teach, serving as honorary professor and senior advisor at several universities including Tsinghua (Beijing), Shanghai Jiaotong, Hong Kong Polytech, and Hong Kong Baptist. He has written four books in Chinese and one in English, focusing on the connections between soft power, innovation, entrepreneurship, and the philosophies of Laozi and Confucius.