Eighteenth-Century History of Science, Technology, and Philosophy (Volume 1 and 2)

Author: (English) Yawolfo Zhou Changzhong Miao Yishun Mao Rongyun
Publisher:
Publish Date: 1998-04-01
Features: The 17th century left a vast legacy for posterity; the 18th century was undeniably the worthy inheritor of this genius era. The achievements of predecessors in fields such as science, technology, and philosophy were appropriately absorbed, and not only that, they were significantly advanced in many directions. The 18th century was given various names: "The Age of Reason," "The Enlightenment," "The Age of Criticism," "The Philosophical Century." In this century, human knowledge was spread to an unprecedentedly broad range and applied to every possible aspect, with the aim of improving human life. All intellectual and moral forces of the time were harnessed to the chariot of human progress, a feat never seen before. Unfortunately and truly, the actual achievements fell far short of the efforts made by the leaders of the humanist movement. The forces of darkness and oppression were everywhere entrenched, making it difficult to drive them away. The advocates of humanism were constantly hindered and persecuted, and their works were censored or destroyed by the authorities. However, they never remained silent, never grew discouraged. They increasingly loudly raised the cries of the suffering humanity. This cry resonated across vast regions. It shook the foundations of tyranny, and the walls of Jericho collapsed.