Purpose of Science

Beautiful structure of pyramidal neurons (Source: richerramblings.wordpress.com)

What is the purpose of science? This question is too abstract. Let me explain what I meant by this question. There are countless scientists around the world, but each of them has different purpose of working in the field of science. Some scientists work for science to satisfy their voracious intellectual appetite with extraordinary talents. Some scientists are only interested in making money and funds for research and living responding to industrial or federal demands sensitively. Whatever the purpose is given, any scientist is evaluated just based on his or her scientific achievements which can be verified objectively or quantitatively.

To speak bluntly, I do science owing to a variety of reasons. One of the biggest reasons is because research is the best thing I can do using my talent in math and engineering. On the other hand, it is probably the only way through which I can earn money for my family's livelihood. I know very well that I could not be a professional soccer player although I am a passionate fan of National Women's Soccer League.

However, I also realize that such purposes are conditional but could not be eventual. If I had no talent in science, or if I had an alternative way to earn enough money for my family, my life might be completely different from a scientist. As I mentioned at the very beginning, I intended to ask what should be the 'ultimate' purpose of occupation as a scientist.

I believe the ultimate purpose is God itself. He exists by himself, and creates everything. He is the beginning and end of all beings. Science is not only the revelation or clarification of God's holiness reflected in nature, but also the realization of God's love toward human beings.

Let me give an example. One of my major research projects is to study the functions of the placenta and fetal brain through in utero magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The placenta is one of mysterious organs which supplies oxygen and nutrients to the fetus during pregnancy. I have felt God's scrupulous love through my placenta study. How well is the placenta made and organized to take care of the fetus! Its functions are so mysterious that they cannot be imitated using artificial intelligence or machines. Scientific research of the placenta leads to the advance in clinical services. Placental insufficiency will be able to diagnosed as early as possible to prevent the fetus from abnormal brain development due to the lack of oxygen or nutrients. Behind all these scientific activities, there is God. He works for science and with science. He is the only ultimate purpose of science.