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The Scientific Edge: The Indian Scientist from Vedic to Modern Times
India has a rich history of scientific accomplishments. In the fifth century, nearly one millennium before Copernicus, the Indian astronomer and mathematician Aryabhata theorized that the earth spins on its axis. Likewise, in the twentieth century physicist Meghnad Saha’s ionization equation opened the door to stellar astrophysics.But India’s scientific achievements have occurred as flashes of brilliance rather than as a clear trajectory of progress. So how did India, with its historic university system andexcellent observatories, lose its scientific edge?Cosmologist, founder director of the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics, and science fiction author Jayant V. Narlikar tracks the highs and lows of Indianscience across the millennia, distinguishing fact from fiction. Through a lively narrative of breakthroughs and failures, he explores the glories of India’s scientific advances and questions the more fanciful so-called discoveries. His essays are invigorated by his excitement for new findings, and he argues passionately for preserving the true scientific temperament instead of granting legitimacy to such pseudosciences as astrology.Above all, Narlikar raises issues that both the layperson and the scientist need to consider as India seeks to lead the world in information technology and biotechnology.
216 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 4, 2003
7 people are currently reading
154 people want to read
About the author
Jayant V. Narlikar
81 books129 followersJayant Vishnu Narlikar was an Indian astrophysicist and emeritus professor at the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA). His research was on alternative cosmology. Narlikar was also an author who wrote textbooks on cosmology, popular science books, and science fiction novels and short stories.
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
March 6, 2018
I bought this book after reading The Wings of Fire by Dr A.P.J Kalam. Finally, I read it after almost 10 years. The book is about the historical evolution of science in India. Jayant V. Narlikar is an astrophysicist of great repute. Naturally, his inclination for astronomy and astrophysics is uncharacteristically reflected in the book. The book also addresses topics that debunk the popular contemporary myths in India, the present state of scientific institutions, etc.
The author starts with actual scientific contributions of Ancient India. He explains the rigour of scientific temper and how it can be used to debunk the popular myths that have crept into the collective mindset. For example, he cites Shulva Sutra, which is the statement of Pythagoras' Theorem. People often do not fully comprehend that existence of the mere proposed statement lacks the proof of it. Shulva Sutra correctly identifies and predates the statement of Pythagoras' Theorem. But lacks the proof of the theorem in ancient texts.
He also discusses the invaluable contributions of Aryabhatta I and Bhaskara II. (Both of them share the honour of having satellites named after them.) One of my favourite quote with reference to Aryabhatta I is - "Unfortunately, the sociology of science teaches that while it is creditable and rewarding to be slightly ahead of your contemporaries, it is much more credible but not at all rewarding to be way ahead of them." This, in my opinion, is also applicable to Copernicus and Galileo. There is a small portion dedicated to the rise and fall of olden universities such as Nalanda and Takshashila
I have one major disagreement with the author. He states that Ayurveda cites the reason of ill-health to ghosts and influence of evil entities. Ayurveda is an approach that deals and categorizes everything with the imbalances in the body and its functions. Ayurveda doesn't deal with microbiology for the obvious lack of tools like a microscope, etc.
He also advocates seeing the error in believing the existence of advanced technology such as missiles and planes. The reason he cites is a logical one, that there are not enough texts or evidence to guarantee the existence of atomic theory or electromagnetic theory during that period. He claims to dismiss them as fertile imagination. Vedic Mathematics also has been debunked with the reasoning that mere methods of number crunching do not constitute advanced mathematics and the folly of not enough credible references from ancient texts. It turns out that Vedic mathematics is neither mathematics or Vedic in origin. All these myths are borne out of confirmation bias and parameter fitting.
In the next section of the book, Narliker introduces the ideas of scientific temper and theorising. He then discusses the impact and understanding of scientific culture, the advent of modern astronomy through colonial interactions, and development of modern astronomy and astrophysics in India. There are stories of missed opportunities and successful ventures that were undertaken. The tropical weather attracted the development of observatories in India, by the colonial scientific community. Allied with this were the contributions of Raja Ram Mohan Roy for social and educational revolutions in India. It is often forgotten that the rise of science is also impacted by the then social and educational construct of society. This facilitated a fertile ground for evolution and growth of astronomy and astrophysics in India.
Narlikar then dedicates a portion of a critical analysis of the post-independent and contemporary scientific institutions. He makes a striking remark saying - "..... very often we suspect that our academic institutions are uncomfortable with excellence. They are happy with mediocrity since then not much is expected from anybody and everyone can bask in masterly inactivity." This does not reflect on select few very successful institutions like IITs, but rather on many more universities and colleges which are largely mediocre. He also puts an emphasis on the role of science journalism in educating and propagating scientific temper.
He also decimates the astrology as science. He remarks that the existence of astrology is more of a social need rather than a scientific one. Lastly, he ends on the analysing the possible synthesis of religion and science. He describes how it can be put in a non-antagonistic fashion to coexist, by differentiating between knowledge and philosophy.
The book is compact and factual. Written in simple language except for the scientific terms thrown in. It can be a good light reading.
The author starts with actual scientific contributions of Ancient India. He explains the rigour of scientific temper and how it can be used to debunk the popular myths that have crept into the collective mindset. For example, he cites Shulva Sutra, which is the statement of Pythagoras' Theorem. People often do not fully comprehend that existence of the mere proposed statement lacks the proof of it. Shulva Sutra correctly identifies and predates the statement of Pythagoras' Theorem. But lacks the proof of the theorem in ancient texts.
He also discusses the invaluable contributions of Aryabhatta I and Bhaskara II. (Both of them share the honour of having satellites named after them.) One of my favourite quote with reference to Aryabhatta I is - "Unfortunately, the sociology of science teaches that while it is creditable and rewarding to be slightly ahead of your contemporaries, it is much more credible but not at all rewarding to be way ahead of them." This, in my opinion, is also applicable to Copernicus and Galileo. There is a small portion dedicated to the rise and fall of olden universities such as Nalanda and Takshashila
I have one major disagreement with the author. He states that Ayurveda cites the reason of ill-health to ghosts and influence of evil entities. Ayurveda is an approach that deals and categorizes everything with the imbalances in the body and its functions. Ayurveda doesn't deal with microbiology for the obvious lack of tools like a microscope, etc.
He also advocates seeing the error in believing the existence of advanced technology such as missiles and planes. The reason he cites is a logical one, that there are not enough texts or evidence to guarantee the existence of atomic theory or electromagnetic theory during that period. He claims to dismiss them as fertile imagination. Vedic Mathematics also has been debunked with the reasoning that mere methods of number crunching do not constitute advanced mathematics and the folly of not enough credible references from ancient texts. It turns out that Vedic mathematics is neither mathematics or Vedic in origin. All these myths are borne out of confirmation bias and parameter fitting.
In the next section of the book, Narliker introduces the ideas of scientific temper and theorising. He then discusses the impact and understanding of scientific culture, the advent of modern astronomy through colonial interactions, and development of modern astronomy and astrophysics in India. There are stories of missed opportunities and successful ventures that were undertaken. The tropical weather attracted the development of observatories in India, by the colonial scientific community. Allied with this were the contributions of Raja Ram Mohan Roy for social and educational revolutions in India. It is often forgotten that the rise of science is also impacted by the then social and educational construct of society. This facilitated a fertile ground for evolution and growth of astronomy and astrophysics in India.
Narlikar then dedicates a portion of a critical analysis of the post-independent and contemporary scientific institutions. He makes a striking remark saying - "..... very often we suspect that our academic institutions are uncomfortable with excellence. They are happy with mediocrity since then not much is expected from anybody and everyone can bask in masterly inactivity." This does not reflect on select few very successful institutions like IITs, but rather on many more universities and colleges which are largely mediocre. He also puts an emphasis on the role of science journalism in educating and propagating scientific temper.
He also decimates the astrology as science. He remarks that the existence of astrology is more of a social need rather than a scientific one. Lastly, he ends on the analysing the possible synthesis of religion and science. He describes how it can be put in a non-antagonistic fashion to coexist, by differentiating between knowledge and philosophy.
The book is compact and factual. Written in simple language except for the scientific terms thrown in. It can be a good light reading.
September 25, 2017
A brilliant take on Science, Scientific Temper and need for Skepticism by an eminent Indian Scientist. This book should be required reading for all Indians, especially young Indians still completing their educational degrees. Some topics are a bit dated, but overall, the book is as relevant today as it was in 2003, when it was first published.
November 24, 2024
This being my very first review, take it with a grain of salt y'all. It's gonna be a long rant.
A very interesting book, with good ideas and suggestions. It is more relevant to today's (post 2020s) modern India, as we move forward, though it was written in 2000s. Some of the aspects of technology has changed a huge bit since the time, but the author's arguments still has some merit.
In "The Scientific Edge," Narlikar touches upon the familiar figures like Newton, Kepler, Brahe, Copernicus, Galileo, and Lord Kelvin, as well as the wonders of flight. If you already have some exposure to these concepts, you'll find yourself revisiting familiar territory.
One interesting aspect Narlikar delves into is the relationship between religion and science. He resonates with what I personally believe and highlights the tendencies and pitfalls of both perspectives. His thoughts on why science didn't flourish in India offer a novel viewpoint that I haven't encountered before, although I still find it difficult to fully accept.
A core idea presented by Narlikar is that the nature of science is to absorb all available evidence before arriving at a favorable conclusion. This perspective resonates strongly with me. Religion, for him, is a deeply personal matter, distinct from everyday religious practices. He appears to lean towards being an agnostic theist, with the Vedas having a profound impact on his thinking. Surprisingly, this author has had a greater influence on my belief in the power and influence of science than any religious book I've come across.
Now, I approach this book from various other fields and experiences than what the author encountered during his time. I've witnessed significant disparities and witnessed the unsettling adulation of youth. People aren't automatically civil just because they follow certain steps. The internet has allowed for the emergence of a beautiful yet fragile inner world, and it makes me wonder if the author would hold a more somber view of humanity if he were to witness these developments.
However, despite these considerations, "The Scientific Edge" inspires hope. Not just for India, but for the world. Personally, if I'm seeking a dose of hope, I still turn to the work of Youtuber exurb1a. I would particularly recommend reading the short story "All the Leaves Sing of God" from his book The Fifth Science. That being said, this book certainly has its merits. It offers a deeper and more impactful narrative that I believe would be helpful to many readers.
A very interesting book, with good ideas and suggestions. It is more relevant to today's (post 2020s) modern India, as we move forward, though it was written in 2000s. Some of the aspects of technology has changed a huge bit since the time, but the author's arguments still has some merit.
In "The Scientific Edge," Narlikar touches upon the familiar figures like Newton, Kepler, Brahe, Copernicus, Galileo, and Lord Kelvin, as well as the wonders of flight. If you already have some exposure to these concepts, you'll find yourself revisiting familiar territory.
One interesting aspect Narlikar delves into is the relationship between religion and science. He resonates with what I personally believe and highlights the tendencies and pitfalls of both perspectives. His thoughts on why science didn't flourish in India offer a novel viewpoint that I haven't encountered before, although I still find it difficult to fully accept.
A core idea presented by Narlikar is that the nature of science is to absorb all available evidence before arriving at a favorable conclusion. This perspective resonates strongly with me. Religion, for him, is a deeply personal matter, distinct from everyday religious practices. He appears to lean towards being an agnostic theist, with the Vedas having a profound impact on his thinking. Surprisingly, this author has had a greater influence on my belief in the power and influence of science than any religious book I've come across.
Now, I approach this book from various other fields and experiences than what the author encountered during his time. I've witnessed significant disparities and witnessed the unsettling adulation of youth. People aren't automatically civil just because they follow certain steps. The internet has allowed for the emergence of a beautiful yet fragile inner world, and it makes me wonder if the author would hold a more somber view of humanity if he were to witness these developments.
However, despite these considerations, "The Scientific Edge" inspires hope. Not just for India, but for the world. Personally, if I'm seeking a dose of hope, I still turn to the work of Youtuber exurb1a. I would particularly recommend reading the short story "All the Leaves Sing of God" from his book The Fifth Science. That being said, this book certainly has its merits. It offers a deeper and more impactful narrative that I believe would be helpful to many readers.
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May 25, 2020Scientific Edge written by renowned astronomer Jayant Naralikar provides an insight into India’s glorious path as far as astronomy is concerned. It compares East to West in context of the astronomical achievements. India has given Aryabhatta and Bhaskara to the world that have given the world their mathematical consonants. Aryabhatta has devised the table of trigonometric sine functions naming them jya in Sanskrit. The Sine tables are the propeller of geometric positions of stars and planets on the heavenly sphere.
Here the author tries to bring to our attention that a planet orbits the Sun in an elliptical orbit. As the orbit is elliptical obviously the distance of the planet from the Sun alters during the course of the orbit coming again to the commencing value at the end of each round.
Initially scientists barely could venture beyond the limitations of our Milky Way but now gradually with progressive research they have come to understand that there are similar milky ways in the universe which is expanding exponentially. The assertion that all modern discoveries of science are of Vedic origin fall short upon the scientific probe. The solutions to the questions addressed in Nasadiya Sukta in Rig Veda haul a remarkable similarity to the questions addressed by contemporary astronomers.
What is the origin of Vedic mathematics? Something of the Indian origin could be so developed. Tangible mathematics is not about number crunching but logical reasoning for example the prime numbers are infinite that is there is no divisible by factor other than 1 and number itself. The author goes on to highlight the importance and prevalence of universities like Takshashila and Nalanda that were the academic jewels of the Indian tradition and philosophy. There were various subjects taught to students in these universities and students came from all over the world to gain knowledge in these universities. However after three to four centuries of glory they were looted and plundered by Muslim invaders.
Even though of our profound tradition and culture in mathematics and other sciences as the country progressed there were hardly any patronages for the field of Science in India. The Indians lagged behind in producing telescopes and other scientific instruments. When the Britishers ruled they set up a few laboratories in India but complacency set in and there were not many people desirous of investing in scientific apparatus.
Here the author tries to bring to our attention that a planet orbits the Sun in an elliptical orbit. As the orbit is elliptical obviously the distance of the planet from the Sun alters during the course of the orbit coming again to the commencing value at the end of each round.
Initially scientists barely could venture beyond the limitations of our Milky Way but now gradually with progressive research they have come to understand that there are similar milky ways in the universe which is expanding exponentially. The assertion that all modern discoveries of science are of Vedic origin fall short upon the scientific probe. The solutions to the questions addressed in Nasadiya Sukta in Rig Veda haul a remarkable similarity to the questions addressed by contemporary astronomers.
What is the origin of Vedic mathematics? Something of the Indian origin could be so developed. Tangible mathematics is not about number crunching but logical reasoning for example the prime numbers are infinite that is there is no divisible by factor other than 1 and number itself. The author goes on to highlight the importance and prevalence of universities like Takshashila and Nalanda that were the academic jewels of the Indian tradition and philosophy. There were various subjects taught to students in these universities and students came from all over the world to gain knowledge in these universities. However after three to four centuries of glory they were looted and plundered by Muslim invaders.
Even though of our profound tradition and culture in mathematics and other sciences as the country progressed there were hardly any patronages for the field of Science in India. The Indians lagged behind in producing telescopes and other scientific instruments. When the Britishers ruled they set up a few laboratories in India but complacency set in and there were not many people desirous of investing in scientific apparatus.
August 20, 2021
Very important and beautiful read.
November 14, 2025
Great book. It showcases all the major discoveries made in the field of science by Indian civilization.
May 5, 2024
World renowned Indian astrophysicist explains the journey of science in India in a simple language.
November 11, 2011
Interesting in parts
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews