This is arguably the most "mystical" and fascinating section. Needham explores how Chinese alchemy was split into two paths:
Joseph Needham’s specifically Volume 5 , is the "Great Wall" of the series. While other volumes cover physics or astronomy, Volume 5 dives into Chemistry and Industrial Technology . It is so massive that it was published in over a dozen sub-parts, transforming our understanding of how the modern world was actually built. Science and civilisation in China. Vol. 5, part...
The pursuit of physical immortality through chemical experiments, which accidentally led to the discovery of gunpowder. This is arguably the most "mystical" and fascinating section
Volume 5 suggests that China’s brilliance was its . They perfected technology to stabilize a massive empire, while Europe eventually used those same inventions (printing, gunpowder, the compass) to disrupt and conquer. It is so massive that it was published
Which specific within Chinese history are you most curious about?