Introduction to Science 🧪

Lecture Overview

• First in a four-part series on 'What is Science?'
• Based on the Nature of Science Quiz by Larry Flamer.
• Ensures an understanding of the definition and purpose of science.

Origin and Definition of Science

• Word Origin: Latin senta meaning 'knowledge'
• Aristotle's Definition: Reliable knowledge that can be logically and rationally explained; interchangeable with philosophy.
• Modern Definition:
  • Science: Process by which knowledge about the natural universe is gained.
  • Focus on accuracy, precision, and in-depth understanding.
  • Scientific method and experimentation are key elements.

Primary Purpose of Science

• Development of durable knowledge with increasing comprehensiveness, precision, and certainty.
• Search for Truth: Science as a quest for understanding reality.

Unique Characteristics of Scientific Knowledge

• Tentativeness: Knowledge can always be overturned by new discoveries.
• Does not claim absolute, final, or always correct truths.
• Examples:
  • Aristotle and Ptolemy: Earth-centered universe model held for ~2,000 years.
  • Copernicus: Proposed sun-centered universe model with circular orbits (16th century).
  • Kepler: Improved Copernicus' model with elliptical orbits (using data from Tycho Brahe).
  • Galileo and Newton: Provided crucial evidence and laws showing that the same rules apply in space and on Earth.

Key Takeaways

• Authority of a person is irrelevant; importance is on the knowledge itself.
• Science is self-correcting and wrong ideas are eventually discarded.
• Scientific knowledge applies universally, across all scales and times.
• Knowledge is cumulative, aiming to be more comprehensive, accurate, and precise over time.

Conclusion

• Science is concerned with understanding reality, generating knowledge, and inventing new devices.
• Hawking's Message: Additional insights and perspectives on science.