Why Modern Science Emerged in the West, Not in China
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Chapter 1: The Misconceptions of Administrative Control
Many often misinterpret the historical effectiveness of ancient regimes in suppressing dissenting ideas. Even in contemporary times, where administrative capabilities have significantly advanced, various factions still exist within governance. If ancient societies struggled to contain the aspirations of peasants, rebellious generals, or ambitious ministers, it seems implausible that they could have stifled the intellectual emergence of modern science.
Notably, figures like Zu Chongzhi and his father were not marginalized for their contributions to mathematical concepts, such as the volume of spheres, nor did Wang Wensu face persecution by Confucian authorities for employing derivatives. The absence of modern scientific progress in China and other regions outside of contemporary Europe can largely be attributed to a lack of pressing societal demands that necessitate such advancements.
What social conditions must arise to foster the needs fulfilled by modern science, thus igniting a scientific revolution? This question has been a focal point for sociologists, who have examined this issue through various lenses. Ultimately, the emergence of modern science in Europe stemmed from a confluence of historical realities beyond individual control.
A pivotal moment in European history occurred during the 14th century: the Black Death.
This catastrophic event, which decimated nearly half of Europe's population, had three profound repercussions: the dismantling of serfdom, the decline of feudalism, and a significant erosion of the Catholic Church's authority.
With the mass loss of life, the social framework supporting serfdom and feudalism became unsustainable. Landlords suffered immense losses, while merchants quickly adapted and filled the void. Additionally, the feudal lords faced severe setbacks, leading to a gradual centralization of power under monarchy. By the 15th century, capitalist and centralized nation-states began to emerge as dominant economic and political structures in Western Europe.
Simultaneously, the afflicted population realized that fervent prayers did not yield divine protection, leading to a crisis in the credibility of the Catholic Church and setting the stage for the Reformation.
Section 1.1: Sociological Perspectives on the Birth of Modern Science
Sociologists have analyzed the origins of modern science in Western Europe from diverse perspectives:
Religious Perspective
Following Max Weber's theories, sociologist Robert King Merton examined the interplay between the Protestant ethic and modern science, positing that the Protestant ethos catalyzed the scientific revolution. He argues that within this religious framework, individuals were encouraged to engage directly with God and that studying nature became a means of glorifying Him. This perspective fostered a culture where scientific inquiry was not only accepted but celebrated.
Capitalist Perspective
Contrary to common assumptions, sociologist Thomas Samuel Kuhn argued that the Renaissance and Protestant ethics actually hindered scientific progress. Instead, it was the demands of capitalism that spurred scientific advancements. The Age of Discovery, propelled by merchants seeking profit, significantly increased the need for cartography and navigational technology, leading to the prioritization of astronomy as a key discipline in the scientific revolution.
Centralized Perspective
Kuhn also highlighted the role of early nation-state centralization in Western Europe. As feudal territories consolidated into unified states, the need for an organized calendar emerged, stimulating astronomical development and subsequently the scientific revolution.
Comprehensive Perspective
While not specifically addressing the emergence of modern science, Michel Foucault's philosophy of power offers valuable insights. His work illustrates how knowledge and power are interconnected, suggesting that the scientific revolution was influenced by the competition among various societal forces, including religion, capital, and politics, rather than being a product of national identity or intellectual superiority.
Chapter 2: The Absence of Modern Science in China
The first video titled "How China Became The World Leader In Modern Science" provides an overview of the factors contributing to China's advancements in science, comparing them with Western paradigms.
The second video, "Rise of Chinese science: A worry for the West?" discusses the implications of China's scientific progress in the global arena, raising questions about Western dominance.
Returning to the initial inquiry, why has modern science not flourished in China?
Based on the aforementioned analysis, one can infer that for China to replicate the Western trajectory of scientific development, it would require a significant event leading to population decline, the disintegration of its agrarian economy, the decline of Confucianism, and the emergence of a merchant class that fills the socio-economic gaps. This new social dynamic would create a substantial demand for modern science, paving the way for its emergence.
However, it is evident that despite early centralization in China, the nation has not experienced this comprehensive evolutionary process. At best, it has only undergone fragments of it, which elucidates the reasons behind the absence of modern science in the country.