WISSENSCHAFTEN Meaning and
Definition
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Wissenschaften is a German term that translates to "sciences" in English. It is a plural noun derived from the singular form, Wissenschaft, which refers to the concept of knowledge in general. The term is used to encompass a broad range of disciplines and fields of study that are primarily concerned with understanding the natural and social aspects of the world through systematic investigation, observation, experimentation, and analysis.
In the academic context, Wissenschaften typically refers to the scientific disciplines, including physics, chemistry, biology, astronomy, and other natural sciences. It also includes social sciences such as psychology, sociology, economics, political science, and anthropology, which seek to understand human behavior and society.
Wissenschaften emphasizes the rigorous and systematic nature of scientific inquiry, requiring adherence to methodological principles, empirical evidence, and logical reasoning. It represents a systematic approach to knowledge creation and discovery, aiming to uncover truths about the world and enhance our understanding of various phenomena.
Within the German education system, Wissenschaften often categorizes these scientific fields as distinct from humanities (Geisteswissenschaften) and technical disciplines (Technikwissenschaften), forming a categorization of knowledge domains.
Overall, Wissenschaften encompasses a vast array of scientific knowledge and research across numerous disciplines, illustrating the diverse range of areas in which human beings seek to explore and comprehend the world.
Etymology of WISSENSCHAFTEN
The word Wissenschaften is a plural noun in German that refers to the sciences or academic disciplines. Its etymology can be traced back to the Old High German word wizzi or wisso, which meant knowledge or wisdom. This word is derived from the Proto-Germanic word *witjaz, meaning to know or to comprehend. In German, Wissenschaften is formed by adding the suffix -schaft to wissen, which means to know. Hence, Wissenschaften can be understood as the realms or domains of knowledge.
