科技史研究应文献与实证并重

Laying Equal Stress on Both Literature and Evidence in the Research of the History of Science and Technology

古代留下极为丰富的文献史料,其中含有大量的科技内容和相关信息,只有掌握了科技文献史料的分析方法,才能在浩如烟海的文献中找到自己所需的资料。实地考察和模拟实验可以填补文献记载的不足,解决许多单纯由文献资料研究所难以解决的问题。通过实地考察对古代的工艺技术细节有更准确的理解,避免许多历史文献记载不详而导致的错误。

Abundant literature and historical materials have been handed down, among which there are a great deal of relevant information on science and technology. Only by mastering the analysis methods of literature and historical data in science and technology can needed materials and resources be found in the vast information. On-the-spot investigation and simulation experiments can compensate for the inadequacy of historical records, and solve many problems difficult to be tackled solely by studying literature and historical materials. On-the-spot investigation can also provide a more accurate understanding to the details of ancient techniques; thus, to avoid mistakes due to lack of historical record.