Registration to Departmental Seminar, Department of Philosophy (16 Nov 2026)

Title: Can We Develop a Scientific Theory That Is Both Precise and Broad? Yes, and the Cost Is Far Lower Than Expected
Speaker: Prof. Huang Liqiang
Professor, Department of Psychology, CUHK

Date: 16 Nov 2026 (Mon)
Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm HK Time
Venue: Room 220, Fung King Hey Building
(Limited seats. Registrations will be handled on a first come, first served basis.)

Abstract:
Scientists often face a frustrating trade-off between precision and breadth: a model that is realistic and precise usually works only in narrow contexts, whereas a more general model tends to lose accuracy or detail. Here, I argue that, at least in some cases, an optimal balance can be achieved. Specifically, I advocate a Comprehensive Exploration (CE) approach, which relies on large-scale benchmark datasets and on the search for an optimally, moderately complex model through exploratory and iterative model building. In a case study on visual working memory, a CE model with only 57 parameters outperformed a large neural network with more than 30,000 parameters. This finding suggests that it is possible to achieve both precision and breadth with only moderate complexity.

Delivered in English.
All are welcome.

Enquiries
Tel: 3943 7135
Email: philosophy@cuhk.edu.hk

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1. Provision of personal data is voluntary. The information collected will be used for the purposes of events and communication related to the Department and related responsible organization for this event. Only authorized personnel in the Department can access the information. The Department will promote and disseminate information such as talks, services and research information to you by post, email or phone. You have the right to make subsequent changes on your choice of receiving further promotional information by notifying us in written format. 2. Under the provisions of the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance, you can access and apply for amendment of the data in this form. Please contact our Institute staff if necessary. 3. The Institute will use the photos and videos taken from events in organizing and promotional purposes. If you do not agree with the relevant arrangements, you may submit your wishes and notify us in written format before the event. I have read, understood and agreed with the above terms and conditions.
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