Mathematics, saviour of the nation: Chinese mathematics under the influence of the May Fourth Movement
Abstract
It is often assumed that the Chinese New Culture Movement (May Fourth) strived to bring science and democracy to China. In reality, though, scientific work and prominent scientists remained overshadowed by the humanities and prominent intellectuals.
In what way were the ideas they propagated reflected in the work of truly practicing scientists? On the example of several Chinese mathematicians of the May Fourth Generation and the subsequent generations, I will document the influences of the humanities on the newly formed Chinese science. I will focus on the ideals inculcated in young mathematicians - service to the nation, openness to the world; and the channels of this influence - university education, discussion in newly established journals etc.; as well as on the actual results of this influence in the mathematicians' publications and their interactions with the world mathematical community.