Naturwissenschaften

Naturwissenschaften Definition

Naturwissenschaften is a term used by Wilhelm Dilthey to denote the “natural sciences,” establishing a fundamental distinction from the social sciences. This conceptual separation was instrumental in philosophical debates concerning the appropriate methodologies for studying social phenomena and the degree to which these social disciplines should be modelled upon the methods employed in the natural sciences.

Etymology and Context

The term derives from the German terms Geisteswissenschaften (social sciences) and Naturwissenschaften (natural sciences). The structure of the latter is derived from the components: ‘Geist’ meaning spirit, ‘Wissenschaften’ meaning sciences, and ‘Natur’ referring to nature.

Philosophical Significance

This distinction was crucial in the intellectual debates of the late 19th century regarding the appropriate epistemological foundations for both social and natural inquiry. It framed discussions about whether the methods applicable to the physical world could be legitimately applied to the study of human experience and society.