Peking University, March 17, 2025: As part of the Peking University Global Fellowship programme, Michael Sandel, the Anne T. and Robert M. Bass Professor of Government at Harvard University and Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, delivered a distinguished lecture series at Peking University (PKU) from March 10 to 12, delving into contemporary ethical dilemmas heightened by technological progress and the myth of meritocracy.

In the first of his three lectures on March 10, Sandel discussed the ethics of genetic engineering with the 300 audience in attendance at PKU Hall. In particular, the non-medical applications of such technology for the enhancements of athletic performance or eugenics and designer babies. Sandel underscored the profound and timely importance of this topic in light of recent controversies and technological advancements. 


Sandel posed the above question regarding the ethical limits of humanity to the audience before challenging their respective stances on where to draw the line with regards to genetic engineering. 

Through hypothetical scenarios such as genetically enhanced athletes and a short clip from the classic sci-fi movie Gattaca, Sandel highlighted three core ethical concerns surrounding genetic engineering: morality, consent, and purpose.

The thought-provoking lecture concluded with a panel discussion featuring Sandel and Professor Han Shuifa, Director of the Institute of Foreign Philosophy at PKU. The discussion was moderated by Assistant Professor Wang Yuzhou from PKU Department of Philosophy before the floor was opened to the audience.


The panelists engaged in a stimulating conversation with the audience, particularly regarding genetic engineering for athletic enhancements. Sandel highlighted that the temptation of godlike powers or abilities has driven many to explore technological means to attain them. Nevertheless, he pointed out that, “Sports is about the celebration of cultivation and appreciation of natural gifts and talents.”

In response to the question whether ethics is permanent and universal, Sandel noted that the debate of moral dilemma today is still very much relevant and useful in the future, even if moral standards have changed drastically by then. Moral relativism means that humanity will always have to look into history for a basis for comparison. 


The subsequent two lectures took place at Qiulin Lecture Hall at the School of International Studies. On March 11, Sandel delved into the implications of artificial intelligence, opening his talk with a provocative question: will AI redefine what it means to be human

Introducing real-life examples such as The Beatles’ AI recreation of John Lennon’s unfinished song, Harrison Ford de-aged with AI in the new Indiana Jones movie and AI dating apps, Sandel spurred insightful discussions with Professor Wu Tianyue and the audience, with Associate Professor Nan Xing acting as moderator. Both are faculty members of PKU Department of Philosophy.


The conversation touched on the nuances of AI-generated art versus human creation, as well as the value of unpredictability and imperfections in human relationships, especially human qualities that AI struggles to replicate in its pursuit of perfection.

Sandel remarked, “Artificial intelligence is an artifice that aspires to capture human judgment and experience through algorithmic means, while human art involves human judgment and creativity that aspires to capture reality or certain truths about human conditions. All art involves artifices, but the best art teaches us something true.”

Sandel concluded by emphasizing the importance of distinguishing between virtual communication and natural human interaction, especially in an increasingly digital world. He argued that this distinction is crucial because it relates to the authenticity of human presence. Engaging in reasoning, debate, and listening are inherently crucial aspects of authentic human presence.  


In his final lecture on March 12, Sandel delved deeply into the concept of meritocracy, suggesting that it functions as a form of tyranny. He argued that meritocracy, while often celebrated as a fair and just system, actually perpetuates inequality and fosters an illusion of deserved success. He challenged his audience with thought-provoking questions that prompted critical reflection: “Does the winner truly deserve their success?” and “Does a world-famous pop star deserve to earn more than your most inspiring high school teacher?”


These questions sparked discussion among the audience, particularly around the nature of talent and the role of luck versus effort in achieving success. Sandel highlighted the emotional toll that competition takes on individuals, even among those who are considered the “winners” in a meritocratic society.

In the second part of the lecture, Professor Bai Tongdong from Fudan University’s School of Philosophy joined Sandel for an engaging discussion, moderated by Associate Professor Chen Siyi from PKU Department of Philosophy. Together they examined the pressures of striving for success in an overachieving society, through the lens of the common people. Bai emphasized the moral responsibilities of elites grounded in Confucian values, while Sandel highlighted the need to empower workers through technology and systemic change.

The dialogue offered insightful perspectives on fairness, success, and the emotional burdens that come with the relentless pursuit of achievement. Most importantly, the audience was urged to reconsider the true nature of success.

At the end of the lecture, Sandel expressed his gratitude and admiration for the students’ active participation in the discussions over the past three days. He was deeply impressed by their articulate expression of ideas, critical thinking, and concern for public affairs. This lecture series has far surpassed its original goal of being an academic discussion. It has become a genuine example of citizen participation and a public forum, reminiscent of the Agora, where debates on public issues took place in Socrates’ time. In an era of increasingly divisive international relations, this philosophical approach to public affairs and debate is especially vital.

This lecture series, jointly organized by the PKU Office of International Relations, the Department of Philosophy, and the Institute of Foreign Philosophy, drew over 1,000 on-site participants and a live-stream audience of 186,000, reflecting a significant interest in philosophical discourse across diverse communities.

Written by: Wong Jun Heng, Wang Jia En, Aden Tan
Edited by: Chao Ranran