May 7, 2025
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The term ‘scientist’ is not that old: why were scientists called ‘natural philosophers’ until 1834?

  • August 18, 2024
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Have you ever wondered why scientists, whose influence we feel in every aspect of our lives today, until 1834 Is this title not given? If you are curious

The term ‘scientist’ is not that old: why were scientists called ‘natural philosophers’ until 1834?

Have you ever wondered why scientists, whose influence we feel in every aspect of our lives today, until 1834 Is this title not given?

If you are curious enough “the scientist” Let’s start by explaining how the word (scientist) was born.

The title of scientist was coined in 1834 by William Whewell, a historian from the University of Cambridge.

Willem Whewell

People who were generally involved in science up to that year “natural philosopher” He was referred to by terms such as natural philosopher (natural philosopher) or “man of science”.

However, these terms are more common in rapidly developing scientific disciplines. a specific recognition It could not fully meet the need.

In response to this need, especially at a time when different disciplines were beginning to emerge in the scientific world, Whewell developed “scientist” He proposed the word.

Whewell had also considered using terms like economist and atheist as titles for scientists!

The book The Philosophy of Inductive Science

At that time, fields such as chemistry and physics were developing rapidly and there were people working in these fields a more specific title He started to need it.

He further clarified this term in his book written in the 1840s, and this new term proposed by Whewell became For people who have taken up science as a profession He made it a title that could be used.

This new title will allow scientists to distinguish themselves more clearly from other professional groups and establish their own identity. to express themselves better as long as.

Although Whewell’s proposed title of “scientist” was not immediately accepted at first, it was adopted over time and is now used today. a universally used title knew how to become.

Source: NPR

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