Science vs. technology

April 27th, 2024

That is another new thing for me. I never really thought about the fact that science and technology are two different and quite separate fields of human endeavor. In my mind, they were connected very closely, so closely in fact as to be indistinguishable. A quick mention in a book I was reading recently made me rethink the actual complexity of this issue.

Science is pure. Science leaves room for corrections. Science — even when it is based on observable facts and experiments — is still more of a mental exercise. Science is a process of gathering data and interpreting it through the scientific method. Science is a method of exploring knowledge and expanding the said knowledge under rigorous scrutiny and through peer review. Science is temporary — there are always new and improved ideas just around the corner. Science is a way of understanding (or trying to) the natural world and natural phenomena. Science — when based on concrete evidence (on the best available evidence in a given era) and accepted — is always useful. Science always moves forward and advances the human race.

Technology is messy. Technology is practical and many times useful. Technology is a practical application of scientific knowledge for various purposes. Technology is an action that does not distinguish between ethical and unethical. Technology is implementing — either science per se, or previous innovation, or new complexity (or simplicity) to existing things. Technology is deceiving — it can appear brand new when it is just a rehash of something old in a new package. Technology is untested as to long-term effects — it can appear helpful but in reality, it can be harmful. Technology is an understanding of the already-made environment. Technology is used for comfort, increased productivity, and as a threat of mass extinction. Technology can also be used for the advancement of science, so one cannot exist without the other.