Understanding the Foundations of Science

Science is a vast and encompassing field that has revolutionized our understanding of the universe and ourselves. At its core, science is built upon several foundational beliefs and principles that serve as the bedrock for all its myriad disciplines. This article explores these foundations, delving into the role of philosophy, metaphysics, logic, mathematics, and observation and experimentation.

The Underlying Science of All Sciences

In Hindu philosophy, the concept of Adhyatma-Vijnana/Divyachakshu is often equated with the direct vision of truth. This idea suggests that there is an underlying science, or perhaps a philosophical principle, that underpins all scientific disciplines. A verse from the Bhagavad Gita (15.16–20) hints at this by pointing to a deeper, more fundamental understanding of the cosmos and existence.

The Interconnectedness of Scientific Disciplines

Science encompasses a myriad of fields, including physics, chemistry, biology, and many others, all of which are intertwined at various crossroads. Physics, the study of measurements, provides a framework for understanding the physical world. Chemistry, the study of substances, extends the understanding to the molecular and atomic levels. Biology, the study of life, adds the complexity of biological systems. Each of these disciplines, although distinct, is interconnected at many levels, highlighting the unifying factor of CURIOSITY.

The Foundation of Science: Energy and Matter

At the fundamental level, science is based on the principle that energy cannot be created or destroyed. This is a cornerstone of the First Law of Thermodynamics. This energy is eternally transformed into various forms, enabling scientists to explore the infinite permutations and expressions of matter. However, there is an irony in this: science seeks to understand the origin of matter, which is declared as UNBORN when considering its foundational energy principle.

Our brains are equipped with a remarkable ability to discern and categorize information, using just 95% of their capacity. The remaining 5% is often overshadowed by the vast array of sensory inputs from the external environment. This complex processing is crucial for the survival and evolution of the species. The inherent chaos and complexity (often referred to as "spaghetti") serve as the driving force for evolution, and we need to enjoy and make sense of this process.

The Evolution from Natural Philosophy to Modern Science

Before the works of Francis Bacon and Sir Isaac Newton, science was primarily natural philosophy. The ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle was a key figure in laying down the foundation of reasoning, particularly the notion of reasoning from a priori assumptions. A priori knowledge refers to knowledge that is derived through reasoning and deduction rather than empirical evidence. Aristotle argued that all things have a telos or final purpose, an idea that he used to explain phenomena such as the behavior of physical objects.

Bacon and Newton, on the other hand, revolutionized scientific thinking by introducing the scientific method. This method involves reasoning from evidence to conclusions, as opposed to Aristotle's a priori reasoning. Bacon emphasized empirical evidence and inductive reasoning, while Newton's work, including the formulation of the laws of motion and universal gravitation, laid the groundwork for modern physics.

The Intimate Connection between Logic and Mathematics

The fundamental principle of logic, closely tied to the structure of mathematics, is a reason for the deep connection between the two. Our logical capacity can be traced back to our survival in a deterministic world. The probabilistic nature of the microscopic realm can be perceived as counter-intuitive because it deviates from our everyday experiences.

In conclusion, the foundations of science are multifaceted, combining philosophical, metaphysical, and logical constructs. By understanding these underpinnings, we can appreciate the rich tapestry of scientific inquiry and its profound impact on our understanding of the world.