The Society

The Society of Scholars in the Humanities is a new initiative launched in 2009 by the University of Hong Kong, one of the leading research institutions in the region. The purpose of the society is to provide exceptionally talented scholars at the beginning of their careers an opportunity to pursue their research free from any formal requirements. The Society is designed to encourage critical, innovative and creative thought both within and between the disciplines by fostering interaction among the scholars of the Society and members of the University. What distinguishes this Society from its counterparts elsewhere is its location at the East-West gateway of Hong Kong. By drawing in scholars from around the world to this dynamic centre, it is hoped that the Society will bring a sense of cultural vibrancy to its research and contribute to the intellectual climate of this pivotal region.

Scholars are free to conduct their own research and must, therefore, work independently. At the same time, this sense of independence is complimented by the collegial nature of the Society. It is hoped that new ideas will arise as Scholars gather together as a 'creative cluster' through their social and intellectual interaction. To facilitate such activities, Scholars of the Society are housed together in apartments near the university and are expected to attend meals and other functions organized by Senior Scholars, who are lecturers in the Faculty of Arts, under the direction of the Head of the School of Humanities, Professor Daniel K. L. Chua. In order to integrate the Society within the University, each scholar will also be a member of their disciplinary Department and is expected to participate in its research and teaching activities.

Apart from engaging in research, Scholars will teach one course per year, interact with staff and students, present their research in colloquia and conferences, and to organize the Society of Scholars' Lecture Series. All Scholars are expected to be resident in Hong Kong during the teaching semesters and may carry out research abroad for up to 100 days a year.