In the last decades the gap between between China and the West has been significantly reduced in many areas. With economic growth, China has seen rapid advancement in scientific development. The state's encouragement of science is showcased by structural changes and founding indicating that progress in science and technology is of major importance. In recent years Chinese scientists have achieved significant success in various fields, from space exploration to genetic engineering. This calls for reconsideration of China's role within the science community and its relation with the West. The author focuses on social, political and cultural backgrounds of scientific progress in modern China. Causes behind the initial absence of the modern science in China as well as the social changes that have later led to a fast and systematic advancement in science are analised. Attention is given to Confucianism with its specific ethical system. Focus is on elements that had an influence on creating circumstances for the rise of scientific thinking. Major part of the text focuses on development after 1949. Examined are the structure of science and education system and the achievements of Chinese science since then. Ideological background is also explored. Through research, the author concludes that while science in China is faced with various problems, the notion that it is merely imitative is false as China represents a serious competitor to Western countries in the field of science.
|
