Science, society and planning: Joseph Needham’s report to Chiang Kai-shek in 1946

Abstract

Based on historical materials in the United Kingdom and China, this article analyses Joseph Needham’s 1946 report to the national government’s then leader, Chiang Kai-shek, on the state and prospects of modern science in China, and discusses its background, main content, characteristics, influences and significance. Needham completed the report at the end of 1945, and kept in mind the rich Eastern and Western contexts while writing it. The report revealed a series of institutional problems to do with science in China and provided a framework for scientific development. It also provided specific measures and essentially formed a plan for the scientific development of China at the institutional level. The report had an impact in China at the time, and the Ministry of Education engaged its content to formulate six specific measures for scientific development. Moreover, the Supreme Council for National Defence promoted China’s first 10-year plan for applied science. Needham’s report had universal significance for the development of science – not only in China at the time, but even globally today. The report also played an important role in the formation of Needham’s monumental book series, Science and Civilisation in China.