Just finished reading Gavin Menzies 1434. It sounded very convincing and if it was true, Chinese has contributed significantly to astronomy, mathematics, art, printing, architecture, engineering, weaponry and more. What captivates me most is the exploratory works they have done. It seems Chinese had circumnavigate the world before any one else. Thou credit has been given to Christopher Columbus for discovering America, if the book is true, Chinese has landed on America soil long before him.
Thou 1434 may have its skeptics, there are inventions by Chinese that has contributed much to our lives. Compass, paper, printing etc. I am just wondering, if not for the self imposed isolation, would China be better than it is today.
There is a general saying about Chinese Martial Arts master, they will teach only 90% of what they know to their disciples, keeping 10% to protect themselves in case the disciples should revolt and rise against the master. I can understand the need for self preservation but we can also figure what becomes of the art over time as it was pass from one master to the other.
When I first started out in underwater photography, the only resource I have are books and magazines. It would be nice if some experienced photographers could share their experiences but it seems that there was a tinge of the Chinese Martial Arts Master mentality with some of the photographers I have come across.
Nowadays, it is much better as the internet is rife with forums and people who are more willing to share what they know.
Thou 1434 may have its skeptics, there are inventions by Chinese that has contributed much to our lives. Compass, paper, printing etc. I am just wondering, if not for the self imposed isolation, would China be better than it is today.
There is a general saying about Chinese Martial Arts master, they will teach only 90% of what they know to their disciples, keeping 10% to protect themselves in case the disciples should revolt and rise against the master. I can understand the need for self preservation but we can also figure what becomes of the art over time as it was pass from one master to the other.
When I first started out in underwater photography, the only resource I have are books and magazines. It would be nice if some experienced photographers could share their experiences but it seems that there was a tinge of the Chinese Martial Arts Master mentality with some of the photographers I have come across.
Nowadays, it is much better as the internet is rife with forums and people who are more willing to share what they know.
