Chinese Logic and the Absence of Theoretical Sciences in Ancient China |
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Authors: | Sun Weimin |
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Affiliation: | 1. Department of Philosophy, California State University Northridge, Northridge, CA, 91330-8253, USA
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Abstract: | In this essay, I examine the nature of Chinese logic and Chinese sciences in the history of China. I conclude that Chinese logic is essentially analogical, and that the Chinese did not have theoretical sciences. I then connect these together and explain why the Chinese failed to develop theoretical sciences, even though they enjoyed an advanced civilization and great scientific and technological innovations. This is because a deductive system of logic is necessary for the development of theoretical sciences, and analogical logic cannot provide the deductive connections between a theory and empirical observations required by a theoretical science. This also offers a more satisfactory answer to the long-standing Needham Problem. |
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