The 20th century has witnessed great progress in modern technology. From the micro structures and reactions of the substances to the macro origin and evolution of the cosmos, people have obtained extensive and profound knowledge of science. Since the beginning of 21st century, the priority of scientific research has been swerved to the exploration of complexity science. No matter it is the knowledge concerning the mystery of brains, the origin of life, the global change, or the insight on social economy that goes increasingly global and systematic, it requires us to turn to systems science instead of staying with reductionism. Heinz Pagels, the outstanding American physicist, once said: “In the 21st century, countries with a good command of emerging complex science will become real superpowers, economically, culturally and politically.”

The subject of Systems Theory of Beijing Normal University was founded and purposefully built up since 1980s. In 2013, School of Systems Science was established in BNU, devoted to becoming an internationally excellent base for complex scientific research and talents-training. Academically, we aim to provide a multidisciplinary research platform and reveal the universal law behind the complex system. Culturally, we aim to cultivate an atmosphere of openness, excellence, cooperation and pragmatism, where our academic team can be challenging-spirited, innovative, dedicated, cooperative, and competitive. We aim to cultivate high-level talents who are equipped with both solid professional knowledge and comprehensive qualities and abilities, and fit for the need of the 21st century. We also aim to transform the academic progress of Systems Science into the forces for social and economic development.

Systems science is the inevitable approach to the development of our society and benefits of our people; and your choice of School of Systems Science of BNU will prepare you for a bright prospect.

By Professor Di Zengru, Dean of School of Systems Science