Reflection on Science

Author: Wu Guosheng
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-01-01
Features: This book is a collection of selected speeches by Professor Wu Guosheng from the Department of Philosophy at Peking University, delivered in cultural venues such as Peking University, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Southeast University, and the National Library in recent years. It explores the drawbacks of rapid technological development in contemporary society, starting from the origins of scientific concepts, discussing the relationship between science and humanity, as well as science and ethics. It attempts to correct the imbalance where mathematical and experimental sciences dominate, advocating for the return of scientific diversity and its humanistic nature.
Why is this topic being discussed under this title? The reason is that science is very important today and plays a crucial role in our social lives. However, our understanding of science may not be deep or appropriate. We often hear that science is productive, and of course, that is correct—it is not wrong. But if we limit science to just being productive, that is incorrect. Science is not only useful, bringing us material wealth and a more efficient way of life, but it is first and foremost a spirit. Although many people have discussed the scientific spirit in recent years, what exactly is the scientific spirit? I believe that neither academia nor mass media have clearly explained this issue.