Science-Technology Relationships in Sino-Western Philosophies of Technology: Hints for Innovation, Competitiveness, and Policy

Abstract

Science, technology, and innovation play crucial roles in the society. Studies on science-technology relationships primarily serve for innovation, competitiveness, and policy. Nevertheless, science-technology relationships in the evolution have been disputed in studies from academic and practical circles, especially from the philosophy of technology. This project aims to investigate science-technology relationships in Sino-Western philosophies of technology, and the hints for innovation, competitiveness, and policy. This paper launches and argues on a theoretical framework for science-technology relationships: (i) technology emerges earlier than science; (ii) science and technology are different but closely connected; (iii) science and technology engage in dynamic interaction; (iv) science-technology interaction takes various forms in its complex progress of nonlinearity and diversification; and (v) science-technology integration is presentational. This study applies a systems-theoretic approach to the interdependent policy issues relating to science, technology, innovation, and competitiveness. This article examines how endogenous and exogenous developments of science and technology in China and the West based on science-technology relationships have influenced science and technology innovations, national competitiveness, and science and technology policies. The results reveal cognitive progress and cultural diversity. National competitiveness is preferentially strengthened in real productivities by technological invention and innovation, assisted by scientific research and innovation. This study recommends shifting the centers of science policy and technology policy from exogenous developments to endogenous developments. This article proposes proper reforms from exogenous growth to endogenous growth in science and technology innovations, national competitiveness, and science and technology policies for policy making.