Research vs. Science: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Janet White || Updated on October 6, 2023
"Research" is the systematic investigation into a subject to establish facts, while "Science" is the systematic study of the physical and natural world using observation and experiments.
Key Differences
"Research" and "Science" are interconnected terms, but they represent different aspects of knowledge and inquiry. While both involve systematic approaches, their focuses differ.
"Research" entails delving deep into specific subjects, aiming to uncover new information or validate existing data. It can span various fields, not just the scientific — from humanities to business. "Science", on the other hand, is more domain-specific, concentrating on understanding the natural and physical realm through empirical means.
An essential distinction is that "research" is a process, a method to achieve an understanding. One could research historical events, consumer behavior, or literary texts. Conversely, "Science" is a vast field of study encompassing disciplines like biology, physics, and chemistry, built upon structured methodologies and principles.
While all "science" requires "research" to expand and validate, not all "research" is scientific. Some research may rely on subjective experiences or qualitative methods, which might not fit traditional scientific frameworks.
In essence, "research" is a tool, a method of inquiry regardless of the field. At the same time, "science" represents a broad domain of structured knowledge centered on understanding the universe's physical and natural aspects.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Systematic investigation into a subject.
Study of the physical and natural world using observation and experiments.
Scope
Broad, spans various fields.
Specific to the natural and physical realm.
Nature
Process or method.
Domain or field of study.
Application
Can be qualitative or quantitative.
Primarily quantitative and empirical.
Examples
Market research, literary research.
Physics, biology, chemistry
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Research and Science Definitions
Research
Investigation into a field to establish or validate facts.
She conducts research to find a cure for the disease.
Science
Systematic knowledge of the physical world, based on facts learned through experiments.
Science has revolutionized our understanding of the universe.
Research
The process of collecting and analyzing data on a topic.
Market research shows a trend towards eco-friendly products.
Science
The study of the structure and behavior of the natural world.
Biology is the science of living organisms.
Research
An endeavor to increase knowledge in a particular area.
His research in quantum physics has won him accolades.
Science
Organized knowledge based on established principles.
The advancements in computer science are remarkable.
Research
Careful study of a given subject, field, or problem, undertaken to discover facts or principles.
Science
A disciplined way of studying phenomena, using observation and experimentation.
The science of astronomy has helped us explore space.
Research
An act or period of such study
Her researches of medieval parish records.
Science
A field of study that seeks to explain the reasons for specific events.
The science of geology reveals Earth's history.
Research
To engage in or perform research.
Science
The observation, identification, description, experimental investigation, and theoretical explanation of phenomena
New advances in science and technology.
Research
To study (something) thoroughly so as to present in a detailed, accurate manner
Researching the effects of acid rain.
Science
Such activities restricted to a class of natural phenomena
The science of astronomy.
Research
To do research for
Research a magazine article.
Science
A systematic method or body of knowledge in a given area
The science of marketing.
Research
Diligent inquiry or examination to seek or revise facts, principles, theories, applications, etc.; laborious or continued search after truth.
The research station that houses Wang and his team is outside Lijiang, a city of about 1.2 million people. File:The research station that houses Wang and his team is outside Lijiang.ogg
Science
(Archaic) Knowledge, especially that gained through experience.
Research
A particular instance or piece of research.
Science
(countable) A particular discipline or branch of learning, especially one dealing with measurable or systematic principles rather than intuition or natural ability.
Of course in my opinion Social Studies is more of a science than an art.
Research
(transitive) To search or examine with continued care; to seek diligently.
Science
Specifically the natural sciences.
My favorite subjects at school are science, mathematics, and history.
Research
(intransitive) To make an extensive investigation into.
Science
Knowledge gained through study or practice; mastery of a particular discipline or area.
Research
(transitive) To search again.
Science
The fact of knowing something; knowledge or understanding of a truth.
Research
Diligent inquiry or examination in seeking facts or principles; laborious or continued search after truth; as, researches of human wisdom; to research a topic in the library; medical research.
The dearest interests of parties have frequently been staked on the results of the researches of antiquaries.
Science
(uncountable) The collective discipline of study or learning acquired through the scientific method; the sum of knowledge gained from such methods and discipline.
Research
Systematic observation of phenomena for the purpose of learning new facts or testing the application of theories to known facts; - also called scientific research. This is the research part of the phrase "research and development" (R&D).
Science
(uncountable) Knowledge derived from scientific disciplines, scientific method, or any systematic effort.
Research
To search or examine with continued care; to seek diligently.
Science
The scientific community.
Research
Systematic investigation to establish facts
Science
Synonym of sweet science
Research
A search for knowledge;
Their pottery deserves more research than it has received
Science
Obsolete spelling of scion
Research
Inquire into
Science
To cause to become versed in science; to make skilled; to instruct.
Research
Attempt to find out in a systematically and scientific manner;
The student researched the history of that word
Science
To use science to solve a problem.
Research
A detailed study of a subject to discover information.
His research on ancient civilizations is groundbreaking.
Science
Knowledge; knowledge of principles and causes; ascertained truth of facts.
If we conceive God's sight or science, before the creation, to be extended to all and every part of the world, seeing everything as it is, . . . his science or sight from all eternity lays no necessity on anything to come to pass.
Shakespeare's deep and accurate science in mental philosophy.
Research
Inquiry into a topic to contribute to its understanding.
Archaeologists' research provides insights into past cultures.
Science
Accumulated and established knowledge, which has been systematized and formulated with reference to the discovery of general truths or the operation of general laws; knowledge classified and made available in work, life, or the search for truth; comprehensive, profound, or philosophical knowledge.
All this new science that men lere [teach].
Science is . . . a complement of cognitions, having, in point of form, the character of logical perfection, and in point of matter, the character of real truth.
Science
Especially, such knowledge when it relates to the physical world and its phenomena, the nature, constitution, and forces of matter, the qualities and functions of living tissues, etc.; - called also natural science, and physical science.
Voltaire hardly left a single corner of the field entirely unexplored in science, poetry, history, philosophy.
Science
Any branch or department of systematized knowledge considered as a distinct field of investigation or object of study; as, the science of astronomy, of chemistry, or of mind.
Good sense, which only is the gift of Heaven,And though no science, fairly worth the seven.
Science
Art, skill, or expertness, regarded as the result of knowledge of laws and principles.
His science, coolness, and great strength.
Science
To cause to become versed in science; to make skilled; to instruct.
Science
A particular branch of scientific knowledge;
The science of genetics
Science
Ability to produce solutions in some problem domain;
The skill of a well-trained boxer
The sweet science of pugilism
FAQs
Why is research important in science?
Research helps validate, refute, or expand scientific knowledge.
Can research be subjective?
Yes, some research, especially in humanities, can be qualitative and subjective.
Is science limited to laboratories?
No, science covers observations and studies in various settings.
Is historical research considered science?
No, though systematic, it's part of the humanities.
What's a key difference between research in arts and science?
Scientific research often seeks objective, empirical evidence, while arts research may be more interpretative.
Is all research scientific?
No, research can span various fields, not just science.
How has science impacted daily life?
Science has led to technological advancements, medical improvements, and better understanding of the world.
Does science always rely on experiments?
While central to science, not all scientific knowledge comes solely from experiments.
Can one be a researcher without being a scientist?
Absolutely, as research spans beyond just scientific fields.
Do all scientific theories originate from research?
Most do, as research helps form and validate scientific theories.
Can research be done by non-experts?
While expertise helps, many research methods are accessible to non-experts.
Is market research a type of science?
While systematic, it's more related to business than traditional science.
Are research findings always conclusive?
No, research can lead to more questions and may evolve with new data.
Why do we study science in school?
Science helps explain the natural world and fosters critical thinking.
What branches of science are there?
Major branches include physical, life, social, and formal sciences.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
