1. What is Science
1.1. Science
- Science is the pursuit and application of knowledge and understanding of the natural and social world following a systematic methodology based on evidence (sciencecouncil.org)
- A material force dispelling illusions
- An ideological superstructure of capitalism
1.2. Engineering
- The application of science and mathematics by which the properties of matter and the sources of energy in nature are made useful to people. (Merriam-Webster.com)
- Aims to produce the best solution given resources and constraints.
1.3. Technology
- A manner of accomplishing a task especially using technical processes, methods or knowledge (Merriam-Webster.com)
- The body of knowledge, systems, processes and artefacts that result from engineering.
1.4. Science, Engineering and Technology
- Science, engineering and technology are all situated in the context of a larger society that determines what science and engineering get done.
- Human values, needs and problems determine what scientists investigate and what engineers tackle.
1.5. The traditional view of science
- Many early discoveries were made by people who were interested in the world around them and trying to make sense of how it works. Gravity, magnetism, radioactivity were all discovered by people thinking “I wonder what happens if…”
- They tended to be working alone and be financially independent – Marie Curie did most of her research in a converted shed.
1.6. The modern view of science
Science as a business
- Equipment, labs, materials, computers…
- All of these cost money which has to come from somewhere – business becomes involved.
1.7. The conventional image of science
- The role of the scientist is to study the world around us and explain it. They should come up with theories and laws that will predict the outcomes of experiments.
- Science is a reliable form of knowledge, with strict methods that scientists follow.
1.8. Summary
- Science, engineering and technology are all interlinked.
- The perception of science has changed as business becomes more involved with scientific discoveries.
- Due to new technology and wider media coverage the public image of science can change rapidly.