Astronomy and Mathematics in Ancient China: The 'Zhou Bi Suan Jing'

by Christopher Cullen

Overview

This is a study and translation of the Zhou bi suan jing, a Chinese work on astronomy and mathematics that reached its final form around the first century AD. The author provides the first easily accessible introduction to the developing mathematical and observational practices of ancient Chinese astronomers and shows how the generation and validation of knowledge about the heavens in Han dynasty China related closely to developments in statecraft and politics. This book will be fascinating reading for scholars in the history of science, Chinese history, and astronomy.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521035378
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	01/18/2007
Series:	Needham Research Institute Studies , #1
Pages:	256
Product dimensions:	7.36(w) x 9.69(h) x 0.51(d)

Table of Contents

Preface; 1. The background of the Zhou bi; 2. The Zhou bi and its contents; 3. The origins of the work; 4. The later history of the Zhou bi; Zhou bi suan jing: translation; Appendices; References and bibliography; Index.

Editorial Reviews

"...the book stands as a fascinating glimpse into the creation of the Han cosmological system of the religious and secular universe and as such is invaluable to sinologists and historians of religions." Science Books & Films

"This well-written book is much more than an annotated translation of and a lucid introduction to the Zhou bi suan jing, one of the most important ancient Chinese works on astronomy and mathematics....Cullen's fine book...marks an encouraging attempt to reach beyond the limited audience of historians of Chinese science. The book is beautifully produced and richly illustrated." Fa-Ti Fan, Isis

From the Publisher