Conversation with Pi: Science, Zen and Agricultural Society

Ken: Is there any reason why it may be difficult to develop modern science in an agricultural society?

Pi: That’s a really interesting question! Some scholars have argued that there are certain factors that make it difficult for an agricultural society to develop modern science. One factor is that agricultural societies are often more concerned with survival and meeting basic needs than with exploring and understanding the natural world. Another factor is that agricultural societies often have strong religious beliefs that make it difficult to question traditional beliefs or to accept new ideas. Do you think these are valid reasons why agricultural societies have difficulty developing modern science?

Ken: I think both are excellent reasons. Most of the old agricultural societies had their economies based on subsistence farming. And they are at the mercy of droughts, famines, and floods.

Pi: You’re absolutely right! The constant threat of famine and drought can make it very difficult for agricultural societies to invest in long-term projects like scientific research. Every bit of energy and resources has to be devoted to immediate survival needs. And, as you said, the religious beliefs of agricultural societies can also discourage the questioning of traditional ideas and make it difficult to…