Science

System of knowledge which reflects the nature and laws of things. The word science originated from the Latin word scientia, which originally meant knowledge and learning. Science includes natural science, social science, the science of thinking, etc. With the deepening of the human knowledge of the objective world, science has developed into a system with many disciplines, which are distinct from and connected with another, relatively independent and act on another, forming a cluster of disciplines and constituting an immense multi-level system of knowledge. Science is essentially a systematic knowledge system and theoretical system formed on the basis of practical activity. Systematization and theorization are the most important differences between science and common sense and experience in life. The core feature of scientific activity is discovery. Explanation, systems, precision and reproducibility are important features of science. As a mode and method for the knowledge of the world, science is a powerful weapon and means to explore and explain the true nature of the world. As a system of knowledge, science is logically coherent and self-consistent. As a social system, science is an important component part of the social structure and the cultural system of man. As a universal and fundamental type of practice of man, science is the process of activity of seeking truth. A rigorous attitude and spirit are also important connotations of science.

Marx held that science is a historically dynamic, revolutionary force. Science too is among productive forces. Science must be combined with the direct production process in order to be transformed into real productive forces. Material production plays a determining role in the development of science in the last instance. Engels said: “From the very beginning the origin and development of the sciences has been determined by production.”