Lee Yongkyu's Insight
Science and Politics
I used to follow a very insightful YouTuber who focused on books. This person, who had connections with Kyobo Bookstore, shared a particularly memorable observation:
"In South Korea, the top 0.1% of avid readers predominantly focus on science and politics."
This statement piqued my curiosity. Why science and politics? Let's explore these two domains individually.
Science: The Universal Language of Humanity
Science embodies the universal laws that govern our world. Foundational sciences like physics and chemistry form the bedrock of all engineering disciplines. While some scientists might overemphasize the universality of science to the point of proposing a "philosophy of science" that can sometimes sound arrogant, there's no denying that basic sciences are the roots of all industries and societies. These disciplines serve as a universal language for humanity, making them crucial for building a well-rounded intellectual foundation.
For those in the humanities, studying science is even more critical in our current era, where traditional academic boundaries are blurring, and even the necessity of universities is being questioned. Breadth of knowledge often outweighs depth today. Platforms like Harvard's MOOCs or Coursera allow even high school graduates to access world-class education for free. Within this vast pool of knowledge, science—often considered the epitome of rational thinking—is something every intellectual should grasp. For instance, a literature major with no understanding of quantum mechanics would be seen as lacking in this day and age.
Politics: The Heartbeat of Society
The apex of economics and business studies lies in macroeconomics and finance. Even in Christianity, fervently embraced by America's Puritans, Jesus said, "Man shall not live by bread alone." Upon deeper reflection, this suggests that while spiritual values are paramount, maintaining a basic standard of living through economic activity is equally vital.
Fortunately, South Korea has experienced a surge in financial literacy since 2020, thanks to dedicated professionals in the finance industry. Influencers like Shuka, SamProTV, and New York Resident have played significant roles in democratizing investment knowledge, and their efforts deserve commendation. However, a deeper dive into finance reveals its strong dependence on politics.
If you've followed my content closely, you'll notice my frequent posts on international political dynamics. Why? Because understanding global news is essential before analyzing domestic politics. Think politics doesn't concern you? Imagine investing 10 million won in U.S. stocks—you're essentially stepping into the zero-sum trade war between Trump and Xi Jinping. Their actions directly impact your money. Politics is something every citizen must pay close attention to.
Final Thoughts: A Call to Action
I encourage you to continuously research books, columns, newspapers, and various media on science and politics. Follow these topics diligently and think comprehensively. Before long, you'll develop discerning insights not only about South Korea but about the world at large.
