Toward a Global Science: Mining Civilizational Knowledge

by Susantha Goonatilake

"... an insightful study of how some of the premodern scientific results and insights may serve us well in the modern world. Unlike some other books of this genre, this is not the frustrated reaction of a Third World scholar to the successes and accomplishments of Western science, nor a naive cry for recognition, nor the expression of craving for commendation from the West. Rather, this is a balanced and intelligent view of science and history with a no-nonsense approach to ancient science and wisdom, and it reveals serious scholarship and reflection. Highly recommended." —Choice "This study maps the depth and scope of the historical connections between Asia and Europe across the sciences, from mathematics to psychology and philosophy of science.... The outcome is a profoundly engaging work that confirms Susantha Goonatilake as one of the most creative and innovative scholars of science." —Jan Nederveen Pieterse, Institute of Social Studies, The Hague Discard your Eurocentric scientific blinders! Mathematics, printing, gunpowder, and the compass were all developed in Asia—but for centuries the West has marginalized scientific contributions with Asian roots. This study emphasizes the many modern scientific contributions still lying hidden and un-mined in Asian civilizational stores. The author details recent advances from South Asian medicine, mathematics, and psychology and explores how Asian discoveries and strategies can be useful in navigating philosophical and ethical problems raised by future technologies.

314 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1999