"Over the past 500 years, China's contribution to human scientific and technological civilization has been close to zero. This sentence is like a pebble thrown into the tranquil lake, stirring up layers of ripples. The remarks of Zhang Weiying, a professor of economics at Peking University, were like a thunderclap and aroused widespread discussion in the academic hall and in the public eye. But what is the truth of history, and is China's scientific and technological contribution over the past 500 years really so insignificant?
Let's turn the hand back in time to that distant time and explore the depths of history. China's four major inventions, papermaking, printing, gunpowder, and the compass, have long become the shining pearls in the history of world science and technology. These inventions not only promoted social progress in China at that time, but also spread to Europe through the Silk Road in later days, and had a profound impact on the development of world civilization.
If it is said that the four great inventions are outstanding representatives of ancient Chinese science and technology, then has the pace of China's science and technology stagnated since modern times? The answer is obviously no. From "two bombs and one satellite" to manned spaceflight, from high-speed railway to deep-sea exploration, from 5G communication to artificial intelligence, every step of China's science and technology embodies the wisdom and sweat of countless scientific researchers.
It is true that in the 500 years of modern history, Western countries have made remarkable achievements in the field of science and technology, and the statistics of 838 major inventions are indeed remarkable. But that doesn't mean China didn't contribute during this period. Perhaps, our contribution is not included in this statistic, but this does not erase China's scientific and technological progress and achievements.
Professor Zhang Weiying's remarks may be based on a specific perspective and judgment, but it undoubtedly ignores the whole picture of China's scientific and technological development. The contribution of science and technology is not only reflected in a specific invention, but also includes the dissemination of scientific and technological ideas, the establishment of scientific and technological systems, and the cultivation of scientific and technological talents.
We cannot deny the leading position of Western countries in the field of science and technology, but at the same time, we must also see that China's technology is catching up at an astonishing speed. From the "Sky Eye" sounding to the "Jiaolong" entering the sea, from the "Shenzhou" flying to the "Fuxing" galloping, China's science and technology is showing the world the "Chinese speed".
In the face of Professor Zhang Weiying's remarks, we should examine and think with a calm mind. His views may lead us to pay further attention to the development of science and technology, but at the same time, we should also see the true face and great potential of China's science and technology.
In this ever-changing era, scientific and technological innovation has become an important driving force for national development. As a country with a long history and a huge population, China has great potential and unlimited possibilities in scientific and technological innovation. What we need is more understanding and support, rather than one-sided criticism and accusations.
Finally, I would like to say that Professor Zhang Weiying, and all those who are concerned about China's scientific and technological innovation, please read more books, learn more about history and reality, and less pretend to understand and make one-sided accusations. Let's cheer for the future development of China's scientific and technological innovation!
Everyone has their own opinion and point of view on this issue. So, how do you view the development of China's science and technology? What do you think China should do in terms of scientific and technological innovation in order to achieve greater achievements? Welcome to leave a message in the comment area to share your views and opinions! Let's discuss the future of China's science and technology!
In addition, I would also like to say to those scientific and technological workers who are working hard: Your efforts and dedication are worthy of recognition! Please continue to move forward and contribute your own strength to China's scientific and technological development! At the same time, I also hope that the general public can pay more attention to and support China's scientific and technological innovation, and let us cheer together for the future of China's science and technology!
China's scientific and technological development is a complex and diverse topic, which involves many aspects such as history, culture, and economy. We cannot simply summarize the whole picture in one sentence, let alone deny the progress and achievements of China's science and technology as a whole because of the views of one person. Let's understand and pay attention to China's scientific and technological development with an open mind!