I read Classics (6): my thoughts on the light of civilization

What is civilization? If you suddenly ask this question, you may not know how to answer it. It seems that this is a concept that can only be said but cannot be said.

In the new book 《Light of civilization", Wu Jun gave us the answer. After "the top of the waves" and "the beauty of mathematics", Mr. Wu made a contribution to "the light of civilization" and presented and explained the major civilizations in various parts of the world. The entire set of books is now available in the first and second editions, with a total of 16 chapters. In these 16 chapters, the author started from the oldest Ancient Egyptian civilization to the competition of the US and Soviet Union in space in the order of time, it shows you a vivid and interesting historical image. The book is a set of good books that are worth reading and tasting.

Through reading these two books, I think "Civilization" includes the following features:

First,Inheritance. Whether it is ancient Egypt, the United States of America, or the Chinese civilization, there is a process of development, the emergence of any civilization is not an instant thing, it was inherited by the efforts of the first generation. Just like the mobile phone used today, as a communication tool, it has evolved step by step through Beacon, carriage transmission, telegraph, and landline. Newton once said that he was "standing on the shoulders of giants", and on the shoulders of generations of "civilized giants", he achieved the fruits of our contemporary civilization.

Second,Mass. In the book "light of civilization", Mr. Wu has repeatedly mentioned the "unknown" people who say they have achieved remarkable results. Indeed, if civilization is only in the hands of a few people, it is not a real civilization, but a "plaything" of the nobility at most ". A true civilization serves the masses. Just like electricity, communication, and software, they must be used by people all over the world. Although many heroes are mentioned in the book, they are only representatives of the general public and also developed from the masses.

Third,Diversity. Any bright civilization is not a single one. It must contain many aspects. For example, ancient Chinese civilization includes agriculture, handicrafts, and the election system. Newton's contribution is not unilateral. He has contributed to mathematics, physics, astronomy, and even chemistry and theology. Only in the "Blooming Flowers and striving for fame" situation can we truly promote the development of a local civilization.

As a person from science and engineering, especially a software developer, what kind of inspiration can we get from the light of civilization? Personally, my feelings are as follows:

First, we must broaden our knowledge and read more human books. Although this knowledge is not helpful to our work, it can enhance our humanistic quality, so that we can learn to think and understand different ideas.

Second, we need to know more about history and understand the origin of things. When we understand the ins and outs of a thing, we can grasp its characteristics and rules. This will be of great benefit to our study and work. Mr. Wu is a person who "breaks down the sandpot and asks the truth". In order to find out the specific situation of a civilization, he not only personally visited the field, but also consulted a large number of documents, this spirit is worth learning from science and technology practitioners.

Third, we should look at problems and others with empathy. There is a reason for anyone to do anything, just as why ancient China used the imperial examination system to select talents. Under the circumstances and conditions at that time, it may be reasonable for them to make certain actions. Empathy is actually humanistic care.

Fourth, when encountering conflicts, you should learn to choose a compromise solution. Whether studying or working, a person's energy is limited and cannot cover all aspects. At this time, he must learn reasonable trade-offs, and learn to make concessions or even compromise. From the book, we can see that the founding process of the United States is actually a process of constant compromise.

　　

The light of civilization, a rare set of good books, is recommended for everyone.

　　

　　

　　

(Comment on Douban: http://book.douban.com/review/6742558)

　　

(My microblogging: http://weibo.com/zhouzxi? Topnav = 1 & WVR = 5, No.: 245924426, welcome !)