NATURAL
SCIENCES
Select a magnitude of reality to investigate. From the cosmic web of galaxies down to the quantum foam.
The Empirical Universe
In the Formal Sciences (like Mathematics), truth is absolute. 1 + 1 = 2 is a proven, undeniable fact based on rigid axioms. The Natural Sciences do not share this luxury.
Natural science is strictly Empirical. It relies entirely on sensory observation and physical evidence. We cannot mathematically "prove" that gravity exists; we can only drop an apple a million times and observe that it falls down every single time.
The Scientific Method
1. Observe
Notice a phenomenon in the physical world that you do not understand.
2. Hypothesize
Formulate a testable, falsifiable explanation for the phenomenon.
3. Experiment
Design a rigorous test to isolate variables and actively try to prove your hypothesis wrong.
4. Analyze
Compare the empirical data against your prediction. If the data disagrees, the hypothesis dies.
The Hierarchy of Sciences
The natural sciences are not isolated silos; they are stacked upon one another in a framework known as Reductionism. To understand a complex system, you must understand the simpler parts that build it.
Physics dictates the absolute rules of energy and matter.
Chemistry is just applied physics—how atoms bond based on those rules.
Biology is just applied chemistry—how complex molecules self-replicate.
Extending Human Senses
Because empirical science requires observation, we are entirely limited by our biological senses. Human eyes can only see a tiny fraction of the electromagnetic spectrum (visible light).