Research Article
Between China and the West: The Integration of Geometric Optics Knowledge in the Late Qing Encyclopedias
Abstract
A series of new compiled anthologies—encyclopedias—that emerged in the late Qing Dynasty reflected the syncretism of Chinese and Western optical knowledge among late Qing intellectuals. By systematically sorting out the distribution of geometric optics knowledge in late Qing encyclopedias, this paper discusses the compilers' absorption of Western optical knowledge and their expression of the connotation of traditional knowledge, thereby analyzing late Qing intellectuals' reception and cognition of Western learning.
Keywords: The Eastward Spread of Western Learning; Late Qing Dynasty; Geometric Optics; Encyclopedias
References
- Wang, J. G., Hong, Z. H., & Dong, S. Y. (1986). A History of Optics in China. Hunan Education Press.
- Zhong, S. H. (1996). A New Tool for Human Knowledge. National Library of China Press.
- Chen, C. S. (Ed.). (2005). Classified Compilation of Current Affairs. National Library of China Press.
- Li, X. T. (2012). Establishing a new cause: Encyclopedists in the late Qing Dynasty. Soochow Academic Journal, 2(02), 45-55.
- Chen, P. Y., & Milena, G. (2007). Encyclopedias and Dictionaries in Modern China. Peking University Press.
- Zhu, D. W. (1902). Complete Works of International Politics (Vol. 54-75). Shanghai Hongwen Book Bureau (Lithographed ed.).
- Needham, J. (2003). Science and Civilisation in China (Vol. 4, Pt. 1, Physics and Related Technologies: Physics). Science Press.
- Tian, F. (2016). The dissemination of Western optical knowledge in China (1853~1902) [Doctoral dissertation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University].
- Liu, Y. Y. (Ed.). (1875-1908). Chinese Methods of Investigating Things. Yuelu Press.
- Qilu Zhuren (Ed.). (1897). Textual Research on Current Affairs (Vol. 29). Dianshizhai (Lithographed ed.).
- Yinbingshi Zhuren. (1903). Collection of New Learning Works (Guangxu Guimao ed.). Jishan Qiaoji Book Bureau (Lithographed ed.).
- Qilu Zhuren (Ed.). (1901). Sequel to Textual Research on Current Affairs. Dianshizhai (Lithographed ed.).
- Shi, Y. L. (2013). From playthings to science: The spread and influence of European optical toys in the Qing Dynasty. Science & Culture Review, 10(02), 29-49.
- Ma, J. Z. (1902). Compilation of Arts and Sciences (Lithographed ed.). Shanghai Wenlin (Zhongchun of Guangxu Renyin ed.).