Concept of science (Solg 206)

Introduction

Contemporary life is largely shaped by rapid innovation in knowledge, science, and technology. As an academic discipline, Sociology of Science and Technology is concerned with understanding the social contexts that influence the emergence, history, growth, development, and usage of scientific knowledge and technological innovation. The course also examines how scientific and technological innovation shapes interactions among individuals, groups, and different countries.

Image depicting laboratory paraphernalia 

Concept of Science

Generally, science is a source of knowledge upon which humans are able to understand how nature operates and how social realities are structured, function, and exercise control over life activities.

Academically, science is defined as a process of investigation into living activities or processes, known as scientific study, which includes observation, experimenting, and formulation of hypotheses. These activities lead to the production of a body of knowledge now known as science. This body of knowledge comprises principles, facts, theories, laws, and concepts.

In addition, science is a human enterprise with a social dimension, carried out by a group of practitioners with certain attitudes, values, and dispositions that promote qualities such as honesty, humility, objectivity, and sincerity.

Mani (1985) defines science as a systematized body of knowledge and a process of enquiry carried out to study the world around us.

Holbrook (1992) defines science as an intellectual activity through which human beings understand nature.

Gottlieb (2004) defines science as an intellectual activity carried out by individuals, designed to discover information about the natural world in which humans live and to organize that information into meaningful patterns.

Attributes of Science

1. Objectivity

2. Observation

3. Systematization

4. Empiricism

5. Replicability

1. Objectivity – Science does not celebrate sentiments or personal opinion; conclusions are based on verifiable evidence rather than the researcher's bias.

2. Observation – What we see, touch, feel, hear, and taste with our sensory organs. Only what can be observed (directly or through instruments) can be scientifically verified as real.

3. Systematization – Scientific enquiry is done in a procedural, orderly manner, following defined steps rather than randomly.

4. Empiricism – Knowledge claims must be based on verifiable data and evidence, not emotion, subjectivity, biases, or values.

5. Replicability – Scientific knowledge is more or less universal; findings can be repeated and verified by other researchers under similar conditions, which strengthens its reliability.

Conclusion

In sum, science is both a body of knowledge and a systematic process of enquiry, distinguished by attributes such as objectivity, observation, systematization, empiricism, and replicability. Understanding these foundations is essential for the sociological study of how scientific and technological knowledge emerges, develops, and shapes social life.