On May 15, 1868, while Edo (present-day Tokyo) was in a state of turmoil in the midst of the Boshin War, Yukichi Fukuzawa remained unperturbed and continued to present a lecture as usual on an economic text by the American economist Francis Wayland. A memorial lecture has been held at Keio University on May 15, designated the "Yukichi Fukuzawa-Francis Wayland Lecture Day," since 1956 in order to pass down to posterity the spirit of Fukuzawa who esteemed learning and education over any social change that took place.
This year's lecture took place on Friday, May 13, in the North Hall on Mita Campus. Professor Tetsuya Suzuki delivered a speech entitled, "Contributing to Industry through Research and Education at Keio University: What does jitsugaku look like in modern times?" Professor Suzuki discussed how, in the wake of Japan's bubble economy and in the face of the increased impetus placed on research and development produced at universities, it is necessary for comprehensive universities to play to their strengths by furthering the integration of the sciences and humanities. He also shared his thoughts on the importance of universities strengthening partnerships with industry through their educational programs and research initiatives, concluding with his unique perspective on how we might apply Yukichi Fukuzawa's ideas to modern contexts.
The audience members listened attentively to Professor Suzuki's lecture, laughing at times during his humorous asides, and asking follow-up questions about integrative approaches to the sciences and humanities.