Preserving the Form and Soul of Chinese Characters

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Using Pinyin for typing in Chinese can lead to a loss of connection with the form and soul of Chinese characters, which are essential to understanding their meanings. The shift to Pinyin input has become predominant since the early 1990s, affecting the traditional character-shaped systems. The prevalence of Pinyin typing in modern times is evident, even in establishments like Starbucks in China. However, this widespread adoption of Pinyin typing raises concerns about forgetting how to write Chinese characters, as highlighted by Professor Wang. There is a sentiment of sadness associated with this shift, as it can lead to a disconnect between individuals and the art of writing Chinese characters.

When we think of China today, we think of a technological superpower. From Huawei and 5G to TikTok and viral social media, China is stride for stride with the United States in the world of computing. However, China’s technological renaissance almost didn’t happen. And for one very basic reason: The Chinese language, with its 70,000 plus characters, couldn’t fit on a keyboard.

Today, we tell the story of Professor Wang Yongmin, a hard headed computer programmer who solved this puzzle and laid the foundation for the China we know today.

Episode CreditsReported by - Simon AdlerProduced by - Simon AdlerTHE DETAILS TO SIMON ADLER’S LIVESHOW!For People in ChicagoSimon will be performing at the Chicago at the Frank Lloyd Wright Unity Temple on Saturday, September 30th (https://zpr.io/jePmFHyKUqiM).For People in BostonSimon performs at the WBUR City Space on Friday, December 8th (https://zpr.io/jePmFHyKUqiM).

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