(1) In the 3rd-15th century, China was ahead of the west in science and technology, and since then, China's scientific and technological development has gradually lagged behind the west. Reasons: ① The rise of capitalism in Europe and the growth of capitalist industry and commerce have stimulated the demand for technology and provided tools and means for the development of modern science and technology. The bourgeois revolution opened the way for the development of capitalism and scientific and technological progress. Humanism and rational spirit emancipated the mind and promoted the rapid development of modern science and technology.
(2) Southern Europe turned to the United States. Reason: politics: institutional democracy, social stability and peace. Economy: rapid development and enhanced comprehensive national strength. Ideological culture: open and pluralistic, attach importance to science and technology, and introduce talents.
(3) Virtual technology is developing rapidly. Germany has made outstanding achievements in theoretical science and applied science; The United States attaches great importance to the protection of scientific and technological intellectual property rights and introduces a large number of foreign technologies.