Science and Civilisation in China: Volume 5, Chemistry and Chemical Technology, Part 13, Mining - Hardcover

Golas, Peter J.

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0521580005 ISBN 13: 9780521580007

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 2000

Synopsis

The fifth volume of the late Dr. Needham's immense undertaking covers the subjects of chemistry and chemical technology. This, the thirteenth part of the volume, is the first history of Chinese mining to appear in a Western language. Spanning from the Neolithic period to the present day, it deals with the full range of Chinese mining from copper to mercury, arsenic to coal. The author explores not only the written sources but also the archaeological remains, and observes the traditional techniques still in use. The interrelationship between Chinese mining and its social, economic and political implications is examined. Through these discoveries, the author concludes that these factors were probably more important in determining how mining was carried out than the technological progress itself.

About this title

Book Description:

This is the first history of Chinese mining to appear in a western language and covers all aspects of mining from the Neolithic period to the present day. The author draws extensively not only on written material but on his own observations of traditional techniques in use today. He includes many illustrations from traditional Chinese sources and from his own photographs taken at mining sites. The technology is placed in the context of the political, social and economic conditions and comparisons are made with other mining practices.

Review:

"...very real achievement and contribution on producing this invaluable volume. It will be widely welcomed and used, particularly by those interested in mining history." American Historical Review

"[An] astonishing and enduring study...[Needham brings] depth of emotion and technical finesse to his task."
Jonathan Spence, New York Review of Books

"Perhaps the greatest single act of historical synthesis and intercultural communication ever attempted by one man."
Laurence Picken, Cambridge University

About this edition

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 2000
• ISBN 10: 0521580005
• ISBN 13: 9780521580007
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 564