Wetmatigheid en meganiese ingenieurswese

Abstract

The first technological revolution, in the fourth millennium BC, was followed by immense social progress. The second revolution, which is now taking place, could lead to an even greater development in the human sciences, by setting men free from their daily struggle for existence while simultaneously exacting high social standards. Natural law - the "marriage between the ways of heaven and the ways of earth" of the Chinese - represents a route to such progress. In natural science and technology, natural law demands that conclusions be based on observation rather than speculation. The social sciences would do well to follow this example. The activities of the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Pretoria are discussed in the light of the above.

The Department participates in the work of the Laboratory for Advanced Engineering, which was founded by the Department of Electronics Engineering. Leading engineers are drawn to the University by encouraging development work for industry, thus creating a stimulating environment and relevant training programmes while generating funds for subvention of salaries to realistic levels. This approach has proved very fruitful and is supported by industry and state corporations, who have contributed close to R2 million to the Department in the past few years. The establishment of technology centres at universities is at present being hampered by direct competition with those instances who should be encouraging their development. A free-enterprise approach to research and development in the R.S.A. may be far healthier than the approach now followed. All efforts to improve research and development as well as education should, however, be supported, provided they are in accord with natural law.