Philosophy of Science in Taiwan

Abstract

Since modern science was introduced into China, many questions have been raised concerning the subject. Some scholars, e.g., Shih Hu and Wen-chiang Tin, considered science not only as systematic knowledge, but more importantly also as a way of thinking and knowing, or even as an attitude or way of life. Those who held this position usually rejected metaphysics, religion, traditional Chinese medicine and the traditional Chinese way of life as unscientific and hence harmful. They also claimed that the humanities and social sciences should also be studied with scientific method. On the other hand, some scholars insisted that the above scientific position is unacceptable. The controversy is still alive. Although most contemporary Chinese accept modern science without any hesitation, questions concerning the nature of science and the attitude towards science remain unsettled.