Home>Course>[CHES2107] An Introduction to the Development of Science and Technology in China>CHES2107

This course is an introduction to science and technology in China from antiquity to the present day. During the term, we will explore two important questions: what were the conditions for the development of modern science and technology in China, and what role has it played in modernisation?

To answer these questions, we will adopt a global perspective to compare science and civilisation in China with ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome, India, and the Middle East, among others, and we will trace cross-cultural interactions that promoted the diffusion of science and technology between civilisations in the premodern world. We also will look at the philosophical and cultural foundations of Chinese scientific thought and conceptions of nature, as well as the development of premodern maths, engineering, astronomy, cartography, magnetism, medicine, and innovative technologies. Finally, we will analyse the role that science and technology has played in China’ social, cultural, economic, and political modernisation since the nineteenth century, exploring contemporary developments such as e-commerce platforms, payment systems, electric vehicles, computer chips, and aerospace technology.

Course Introduction and Science and Technology in Premodern China

Science and Technology in the Premodern World

Chinese Scientific Thought

Traditional Chinese Mathematics

Traditional Chinese Science: Astronomy, Cartography, and Magnetism

Chinese Medicine and Health

Science and Technology from the Song to the Qing

Early Introduction of Western Science in China

Chinese Science and Technology in the Twentieth Century

Chinese Science and Technology in Opening and Reform