“Needham Problem” and the History of Science and Technology in China

“Needham Problem” in the first half of the twentieth century is one of the issues that cause controversies. Reflections on and disputes over “Needham Problem’ not only render a more clarified position and propensity regarding the studies of science history in China, but also their implications can be as far reaching as beyond the field of the studies of science history in China and even in Eastern Asia. The key lies in the comparison of China’s science (including technology and knowledge of human being regarding the nature) to science in the West as well as the comparative studies of Chinese civilization and the Western civilizations that nourish the development of sciences corresponding to their geographical locations. Undoubtedly Joseph Needham showed his concern and preference for China’s science over Western science.