For artists and intellectuals today, what is most needed is to be clear about social responsibility, because that is what most people automatically give up. Just to protect yourself as an individual is very political. You don't have to march on Tiananmen, but you do have to be clear-minded, to find your own means of expression.

I spent a lot of time standing on street corners [of New York City] talking to local residents. I spent time in bookstores and galleries. But most of the time, I really did not have much to do.

It's really rubbish that some kind of "technical" learning means you will be a better person because you know this skill better.

It is not an easy job to govern China, I am aware of that.

Everyone thinks the Chinese government selected me. Never ever. I was selected by Herzog and de Meuron.

Anyone fighting for freedom does not want to totally lose their freedom.

I think by not letting young people be fully informed, how can they have energy and passion and the right picture of the world? I think that's the true crime.