The importance of water in the historical development of science

In ancient Greece, Thales of Miletus declared water the fundamental element of life. For the first time in history, he studied a geophysical behaviour in scientific terms. This was the “Nile paradox”—why the Nile floods in summer, unlike other Mediterranean rivers. In China, scholars like Zou Yan, through the Five Elements theory and yin-yang, saw water as part of an interconnected system, essential to balance and renewal. Both cultures placed water at the heart of existence, sparking traditions of inquiry and observation. By rejecting divine explanations and seeking natural causes, Thales sparked a tradition of inquiry that culminated the final solution of the “Nile paradox” by Aristotle: the Nile’s floods were driven by monsoon rains in Ethiopia. For confirmation of his theory, the first scientific expedition in history was organized. This emphasis on empirical evidence and questioning assumptions can still be inspiring in the modern world. Aristotle also described how water evaporates, condenses, and returns as rain—noting that “the sea will never dry up” because water cycles continuously. He even made experiments, noting that salt water becomes fresh when evaporated. Similarly, China’s Taoist principles and the I Ching celebrate water’s cyclical flow, symbolizing harmony with nature. Practical ingenuity also defines both water cultures. In Greece, aqueducts were built in the 6th century BC, some enduring to this day. In China, the Dujiangyan irrigation system, constructed more than 2 000 years ago, remains a marvel of engineering, balancing human needs with the environment. These examples show us how to build resilient infrastructures. Both cultures valued clear thinking and harmony. Greek philosophers like Socrates and Aristotle sought precise understanding, much like Confucian ideals emphasize order and mutual respect. This common ground strengthens our ability to collaborate globally, ensuring that efforts to address water problems are holistic and effective. The water cultures of ancient Greece and China teach us to question assumptions, observe nature, build with resilience, and communicate clearly. By embracing these lessons, we can innovate and unite to prevent water disasters, enhance the benefits of water and restore ecosystems.