On 12th March, Lancaster University Confucius Institute successfully ran an academic seminar titled “Scandals, Wars and Social Satire: The invention of ‘news’ and negotiations of ‘news values’ in Late Qing China” with guest speaker Professor Natascha Gentz, a renowned expert in Chinese Studies from the University of Edinburgh. The event was hosted by Professor Jinghan Zeng, Director of Lancaster University Confucius Institute with Dr. Amily Guenier Wang, Deputy Director. The seminar attracted nearly 30 faculty members and students from Lancaster University.

In his opening remarks, Professor Zeng warmly welcomed the speaker, guests, and audience members, highlighting the significance of the topic under discussion. Professor Gentz then delved into the topic, using the renowned newspaper “Shen Bao” as a vivid example to illustrate the news landscape of the late Qing Dynasty. She explored the concept of “news value” in early Chinese newspapers, emphasizing the profound influence of the editorial philosophy and practices of “Shen Bao” on the journalism industry both at that time and in subsequent years.

Professor Gentz’s presentation was a masterful blend of theoretical insights and practical examples, captivating the audience with her engaging delivery. Her profound understanding of the subject matter, coupled with her ability to present complex ideas in an accessible manner, elicited enthusiastic applause from the audience. The seminar not only enhanced understanding of the concept of news and the negotiation of news values in the late Qing period, but also offered a fresh perspective for modern Chinese journalism.

Lancaster University Confucius Institute remains committed to organising such events that bring together scholars and students from diverse backgrounds to explore and appreciate the rich tapestry of Chinese culture and history.

To find out more about Lancaster University Confucius Institute’s Academic Seminar Series, please visit: Seminars - Lancaster University.