Mei Wending, Wang Xichan, and Xue Fengzuo: Chinese Scholars’ Attitude Toward Western Science in Early Qing Dynasty

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AbstractIn order to adapt to the ruling class’s desire of diverting ethnic conflicts as well as justifying their rule, nationalism was given a new meaning during the early and intermediate days of Kangxi’s reign, of which time Xue Fengzuo aimed to introduce Western astronomy, mathematics, and astrology earlier while Wang Xichan and Mei Wending were the two most iconic figures. It was under that singular political atmosphere that Mei Wending was considered the “Supreme Master of Astronomy” with Wang Xichan’s works being finally accepted by the authorities.KeywordsMei WendingWang XichanXue FengzuoAttitude toward Western ScienceEarly Qing Dynasty