Yes, biology is considered a hard science.
According to the provided reference, hard sciences are those that deal with the natural world. These include fields like physics, chemistry, biology, geology, astronomy, and botany. Conversely, soft sciences encompass the social sciences such as history, sociology, and political science.
Here's a breakdown in a more structured format:
Hard vs. Soft Sciences
| Category | Definition | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Hard Science | Studies the natural world through empirical observation and experimentation | Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Geology, Astronomy, Botany |
| Soft Science | Studies human behavior and society | History, Sociology, Political Science, Anthropology, Psychology |
Why Biology is a Hard Science:
- Focus on the Natural World: Biology studies living organisms and their processes, which directly relates to the natural world.
- Use of Scientific Method: Biological research relies heavily on observation, hypothesis formation, experimentation, and analysis – all key components of the scientific method.
- Empirical Evidence: Biological findings are based on tangible evidence and verifiable data.
In summary, the classification of biology as a hard science is grounded in its focus on the natural world and its adherence to the scientific method.
