China’s future development in science and technology under the scientific outlook on development
Hubei Social Sciences
Science and technology have become the order parameter1 of a complex system, which interweaves mankind, society and nature. They are influencing mankind’s progress, the advancement of society and the evolution of nature. In other words, science and technology are determining the way in which this complex system will evolve. Naturally, science and technology must be developed prior to achieving a scientific outlook on development2. But there is a myriad of disciplines in this realm, each with their unique features, so which should we then choose to develop in order to consolidate this outlook? This article four approaches to discuss the question of development orientation in science and technology in China, against a background of the scientific outlook on development.
First, it is vital to underscore the importance of scientific humanism and develop it3. The priority should be on emphasising human development, because all progress is for people, by people and for people. Scientific and technological activities are human activities and although their objectives can vary, their ultimate goal is to satisfy human needs. Any deviation from this goal, whether during the process or in the outcome, would be a deviation from their essence.
Second, it is important to develop cutting edge technologies and increase competitiveness. The 21st century is marked by rapid progress in science and technology, as well as intense competition. Countries all over the world have instituted high tech development plans to guarantee a leading position in this new and highly competitive global environment. China’s regeneration and leading position among world powers in the 21st century depends on its capacity to boost high tech development.
Third, we should advocate green technologies and strive to build an ‘ecological civilisation’. To this end, it is of the utmost importance to promote education on ecological awareness so as to instil new perceptions and to build an ecological world view in all citizens, using ecological benchmarks to evaluate behaviour. Next, following the thrust of this concept, science and technology can develop according to ecological values and green technology system can be established. Lastly, it is essential to incorporate green technologies into the economy, and to implant an ‘ecological gene’ in the manufacturing industries that develop from it. This can form a concrete base for a coordinated and harmonious development between the economy, society and nature.
Fourth, it is important to obey scientific rules and follow global development trends in science and technology. The advancement of society has generated a range of interlinked complex issues. Consequently, uni-disciplinary sciences are unfit to tackle overlapping issues such as the environment, population and resource use. These problems can only be resolved by taking a pluridisciplinary approach. The integration of science and technology is an inherent law of scientific development, which coincides with our current needs.
