Ancient Chinese Inventions

Although there were many Chinese inventions, there are three prominent achievements that have shaped ancient and modern lives. The invention of paper, the Mariner’s Compass and medicine, are all significant contributions to ancient and modern society that the Chinese have made. These inventions have not only impacted ancient Chinese lives, but shaped lives throughout the modern community. Paper has given the world the opportunity to record not only laws, but anything that comes to mind. The Mariner’s Compass has given the world a sense of direction and orientation, and medicine has given the world the chance to stay healthy and live life to the fullest. First, Mo Tzu’s invention of paper was not only useful for writing laws and regulations

With the lack of advanced technology and knowledge of ailments in the ancient civilizations, the development of medicine would have made it much easier to diagnose and cure certain illnesses. As generations changed, many modifications and advancements were made to medicine to help serve the purpose of treating victims. Additionally, the production of medicine provided the Chinese a method of preserving and sustaining life. With a lack of medicine, the many unknown diseases in ancient Asia could have sacrificed numerous lives. Even so, today without the innovation of medicine, the evolving illnesses could potentially wipe out majority of the population. Stated by Bodde, “Chaulmoogra oil [is] still the only known means for treating leprosy, and ephedrine, a plant drug introduced to the West during the last few decades, and [is] now widely used for treating colds” (Bodde). The use of the plants in ancient Asia have also helped in modifying medicine to serve its best purpose. Although there are many hospitals all over the world and various health clinics that can cure ill patients, the origins of most medicine and treatments have adapted from the ancient Chinese