Knowledge of the Human Being through Science

Overview

Science — particularly social sciences, such as psychology, cognitive science, sociology and economy — contributes significantly to our knowledge of human behavior. Neuroscience contributes to understanding the human person through the study of the brain and nervous system.

The scientific method is crucial for science and its findings: it provides empirical evidence through its systematic stages: observation, statement of problem, formulation of hypothesis, testing of hypothesis, analysis of experimental results, interpretation of data and formulation of conclusions.

The knowledge provided by science has contributed to progress in various ways, but science and technology can also be used to manipulate or harm people, and to abuse or even destroy the natural environment. Science also has its limitations, as some contemporary authors have pointed out.

In economics, management and other fields, models used in science function as “self-fulfilling prophecies”: applying a model can bring about results that reinforce that model or theory.

Science is not the only kind of knowledge available, as scientism’s proponents assume. Rational inquiry based on observation is another way to gain understanding. This is the aim of philosophical anthropology, which focuses on human beings through rational inquiry that moves beyond the models of man suggested by social sciences, as well as inspiring new models.