The negative impact of ethical aspects of Confucianism on China's scientific, technical and innovative development

The article analyzes the negative impact of certain Confucian aspects on the scientific, technical and innovative development of China. The authors distinguish seven factors that impede scientific and technical progress in the country. They include the strict hierarchy and ritualization in Chinese society; the excessive emphasis on ethical and social (interpersonal) relations; the ignorance of productive labor; the prevalence of moral and ethical norms over legal norms and the absence of the rule of law; the application of the idea of the “middle way” in practice as a limitation of a person's ability to display mental and creative activity, the deprivation of personal courage in making decisions; the interpretation and modification of traditional ancient Chinese texts instead of creation of new ethical, philosophical, historical and literary treatises; the application of theoretical scientific methods based on intellect, ingenuity, intelligence and commitment to the traditional experience of transferring abilities, skills and technical knowledge from generation to generation. Finally, the authors make conclusions and identify ways out of this situation.