History of Chinese Science and Civilization - Volume 3

Author: Joseph Needham (UK), original text; Colin Ronan (UK), adapted; Translated by the Department of History of Science, Shanghai Jiao Tong University
Publisher:
Publishing Date:
Features: This volume is based on the revised content of the second part of Volume 3 of Joseph Needham's renowned multi-volume work, A History of Science and Technology in China, which he spent nearly 50 years writing. It primarily discusses ancient China's achievements in fundamental mechanical principles, various machines, different types of vehicles, prime movers and their applications, timekeeping devices, and prehistoric stages of aviation engineering. It can be said that the adaptation work by Colin Ronan is well done, as he effectively captures the key points and main content of Needham's original text, presenting it in a well-organized, accessible, and engaging manner. Additionally, he incorporates modern scientific theories, methods, developments, and new research findings, both promoting the significant contributions of ancient Chinese science and technology to Chinese society and people, as well as the selfless dedication to world civilization. He undeniably declares that some inventions and creations once attributed to the Western world were actually known and widely used by the Chinese much earlier. This demonstrates that China is a land of invention and creation, and the Chinese people are a diligent and intelligent nation. As the editor-in-chief stated, this volume also appropriately points out that ancient China's technical advancements did not rise to a theoretical level, leading to subsequent slow and lagging development. This indeed gives readers something to ponder.