Trịnh Xuân Thuận

A Vietnamese-American astrophysicist bridging science and philosophy to popularize cosmology in non-Western contexts

Trịnh Xuân Thuận (b. 1948) merges astrophysics with Buddhist philosophy to democratize cosmic knowledge beyond Eurocentric frameworks. A professor at the University of Virginia, he authored bestsellers like 《The Secret Melody》 and 《Chaos and Harmony》, which explore parallels between quantum physics and Eastern spirituality. His work challenges the stereotype of science as a purely Western endeavor.

Born in Hanoi and educated at MIT and Princeton, Thuận specializes in galaxy formation and the interstellar medium. His discovery of the "young galaxy" I Zwicky 18 provided critical insights into early universe conditions. He also co-founded the International Society for Science and Religion, advocating for interdisciplinary dialogue.

Thuận’s unique approach makes cosmology accessible to Vietnamese and Francophone audiences. He frequently collaborates with the International Astronomical Union to promote astronomy education in developing nations. His 2021 lecture series, "Cosmic Buddhism," went viral in Southeast Asia, inspiring a new generation of scientists. Explore his research at his university page.