Science is a systematic and organized body of knowledge across several disciplines acquired through the scientific method.
Branches of Science
Science may be classified into two primary categories:
Natural Science
Natural Science: It is the examination of naturally existing entities and phenomena, including light, matter, the Earth, celestial bodies, and the human body. The natural sciences are categorised into physical sciences, earth sciences, biological sciences, and other disciplines. Physical sciences encompass disciplines such as physics (the examination of physical entities), chemistry (the analysis of chemicals), and astronomy (the investigation of celestial bodies).
Earth sciences encompass disciplines such as geology, which is the study of the Earth. Biological sciences, the examination of human anatomy is called biology, and botany, the investigation of plant life, exemplify disciplines within the life sciences.
Social Science
Social sciences examine individuals or groups, including organizations, cultures, or economies, and their respective activities. Social sciences comprise several disciplines, including psychology (the examination of human behavior), sociology (the analysis of social groupings), and economics (the investigation of organizations, markets, and economies). The natural sciences and social sciences contradict in several dimensions.
Comparison of Both Sciences
The natural sciences are known for their precision, accuracy, and independence from the observer. As an example, a physics experiment that measures the speed of sound through a certain material or the refractive index of water should always give the same result, no matter when or where it is done. Finding two different numbers for these physical qualities usually means that one or both of the students made a mistake.
On the other hand, the social sciences often lack the same level of precision, predictability, or clarity. For example, when using a hypothetical instrument to measure a person’s happiness, it is possible to observe fluctuations in their emotional state. An individual may feel fluctuating amounts of happiness or sorrow on different days, and even at various moments within the same day.
An individual’s happiness might vary according on the news they get or the incidents that occur during the day. In addition, it is difficult to find a precise instrument or metric that can truly capture an individual’s happiness. Therefore, one tool might determine that a person is “happier” while another tool might conclude that the same person is “less happy” at the same moment.
Kinds of Science
Sciences may also be classified based on their objectives.
Basic Sciences
Basic sciences, or pure science, concentrate on understanding the underlying entities, forces, and governing rules. Examples include physics, mathematics, and biology.
Applied Sciences
Applied sciences, or practical sciences, include the use of scientific knowledge in real-world contexts. Examples include applied physics, applied sociology, and applied psychology.
Scientific Knowledge
The objective of science is to produce scientific knowledge. Scientific knowledge comprises an extensive array of rules and hypotheses derived by the meticulous use of the scientific method to clarify diverse occurrences or behaviors of interest. Laws are consistent patterns of occurrences or behaviors, whereas theories provide systematic explanations for the underlying phenomena or behaviors.
The objective of scientific study is to discover laws and develop hypotheses that interpret natural or social phenomena, so establishing scientific knowledge. It is essential to acknowledge that this understanding may be inaccurate or significantly different from reality. Occasionally, there may not exist a one universal truth, but rather an equilibrium of “multiple truths”. It is important for us to understand that scientific theories are only interpretations put forward by scientists for certain facts.
Consequently, there may be several interpretations, contingent upon their alignment with reality, resulting in either strong or weak ideas. The progression of science is marked by the ongoing refinement of hypotheses over time. This advancement is attained by the use of more accurate instruments, improved observations, and more informed logical thinking (Anol Bhattacherjee, 2012).
Five Sources of Knowledge
Usually there are five major sources of knowledge which are discussed bellow;
Observation
Observation is a careful and focused procedure employed to collect information on a certain phenomenon, event, or circumstance. This forms the basis of all scientific knowledge. We rely on our senses to gather information about the world around us, such as observing patterns in nature or how things interact with one another.
Sacred Authorities
These figures or texts are highly respected within a religion or culture, as they are considered to be sources of wisdom and knowledge. Examples may include religious texts, prophets, or spiritual leaders. It is crucial to critically evaluate the content of beliefs and traditions, as they can provide valuable insights.
Myth
A traditional story, particularly one that looks into the origins of humanity or provides insight into natural or societal occurrences. Myth is a misconception presented as truth. Myths are narratives that provide explanations for natural phenomena, cultural practices, or origins.
While not necessarily accurate, they offer significant insights on the values, beliefs, and phobias of a culture. Based on these facts, we gain knowledge and then use that knowledge to form whimsical thoughts.
Culture
Culture encompasses the collective beliefs, behaviors, and practices of a particular group. It influences our perception of the world through customs, narratives, and societal expectations. Understanding culture allows us to gain diverse perspectives on the world.
Personal Experience
Our personal experiences hold immense wisdom. We gain knowledge through hands-on experience, accepting our errors, and taking time to analyze the outcomes. Nevertheless, personal experience may have limitations and biases, so combining it with other sources is beneficial.
Five Senses
This is all about practical knowledge and judgment that comes from everyday experience. Recognizing the distinctions between various voices is a fundamental aspect of sensory perception, like listening, smelling, watching, touching, and tasting.
Understanding how to manage daily life and make decisions can be challenging, especially when considering the diverse perspectives and cultural differences that exist. While common sense is often relied upon, it may not always be the most reliable tool when it comes to complex situations.
Conclusion
Science offers a methodical approach to understanding the world by means of observation and experimentation. Natural sciences investigate the complex nature of physical phenomena, while social sciences center their attention on the complexities of human behavior and society.
Scientific knowledge is constructed through the continuous refinement of laws and theories, as we enhance our methods and tools. There are numerous sources of knowledge that extend beyond the realm of science, such as sacred texts, myths, culture, and personal experience. Each offers significant insights; nevertheless, the scientific approach enables us to transcend common sense and personal prejudices to achieve a more objective comprehension.
