Classification of scientific branches and fields has proven to be a debatable subject, yet it is an important criterion for understanding the acquisition of knowledge and satisfying our curiosity. By understanding this classification, we can refine and enhance our way of thinking and problem-solving in the real world. Two major and broad categories of scientific disciplines emerge when classification is based on their focus and objectives: natural/fundamental sciences and applied sciences.
Although we will not delve into this topic here, it is important to highlight a notion concerning science itself. The renowned astrophysicist Carl Sagan once stated that science is more than a body of knowledge; it is a way of thinking. Science is the pursuit of knowledge, the mechanism we employ to expand our understanding and apply that knowledge in the real world. This fundamental concept aids us in identifying and bridging the gap between interconnected categories of science.
Natural sciences are scientific disciplines that seek to answer fundamental questions about how nature functions and why it operates in the way it does. These sciences aim to describe phenomena in the universe by addressing why, how, and when they occur. They rely on systematic observation, experimentation, and analysis as well-established methods to accumulate knowledge. This knowledge takes the form of theories, laws, and explanations that provide a solid foundation for applied sciences to utilize. The major branches encompassed in this category are physics, biology, geology, and environmental sciences.
Applied sciences exploit the theoretical knowledge accumulated by natural/pure sciences. They take a practical approach to implement theories and explanations in real-life scenarios. Applied sciences cater to human needs by developing new technologies, techniques, and refining existing ones. In other words, they practically apply the theoretical knowledge to facilitate, improve, and expedite life on Earth. Engineering, medicine, agriculture, and computer science are included within applied sciences.
There are scientific disciplines that do not neatly fit into either of these two categories. For instance, mathematics stands on its own. It is a fundamental science concerned with abstract concepts, logical relationships, and the development of formal systems. However, at the subatomic level, mathematics describes the physical reality that we cannot directly observe but can only measure. Yet, it cannot be classified as a natural science due to differences in methodology. While some fields of applied mathematics can be considered applied sciences, mathematics as a whole is more theoretical than practical, serving as a tool or language for other sciences. Another example is social sciences, which focus on studying human behavior, societal structures, and interactions. They do not study the physical reality and employ their own unique methodologies and approaches.
Understanding the entire process of accumulating knowledge and its application to real-world problems is essential. Science serves as an ever-evolving mechanism to accomplish this, and reviewing our methodologies and criteria can accelerate our progress and satiate our curiosity.
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