In 2017, pop star Katy Perry asked astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson a seemingly simple question: “Is math related to science?” The question, which was part of an interview for National Geographic’s StarTalk show, went viral on social media and generated a lot of reactions. Some people mocked Perry for her lack of knowledge, while others defended her curiosity and praised Tyson for his patient and respectful answer. But what exactly is the relationship between math and science, and why did Perry’s question cause such a stir?
Math and Science: A Complex Connection
Mathematics and science are both domains of human knowledge that aim to understand and describe the natural world. They share some common elements, such as logic, reasoning, evidence, and experimentation. However, they also differ in some fundamental aspects, such as their origins, methods, and goals.
Mathematics is often considered to be a purely abstract and formal system of symbols and rules that can be manipulated according to certain principles. Mathematics does not depend on empirical observations or experiments to validate its statements. Rather, it relies on axioms, definitions, and proofs to establish its truths. Mathematics can create its own objects and concepts that may or may not have any correspondence to reality.
Science, on the other hand, is based on empirical observations and experiments that test hypotheses and theories about the natural world. Science does not assume anything to be true without evidence or verification. Rather, it uses data, models, and predictions to explain and predict phenomena. Science can only deal with objects and concepts that are observable or measurable in some way.
Therefore, math and science are related by marriage but not by blood. They are both tools that humans use to explore and understand reality, but they have different origins, methods, and goals. Math can be seen as a language of science, as it helps scientists communicate, quantify, and analyze their findings. However, math is not the same as science, as it can also create its own realities that are independent of observation or experiment.
Katy Perry’s Question: A Source of Controversy
Katy Perry’s question “Is math related to science?” may seem naive or ignorant to some people who are familiar with the basic concepts of math and science. However, it is actually a good question that reflects a genuine curiosity and interest in learning more about these domains. Moreover, it is not an easy question to answer, as it involves philosophical and historical issues that are still debated among experts.
Some people may argue that math is indeed a science, as it follows a rigorous method of inquiry based on logic and proof. They may point out that math has contributed to many scientific discoveries and advancements throughout history. They may also claim that math is empirical in some sense, as it is inspired by or tested against reality.
Others may contend that math is not a science, as it does not rely on observation or experiment to validate its statements. They may emphasize that math is a human invention that can be arbitrary or subjective in some cases. They may also assert that math is not empirical in any sense, as it is detached from or indifferent to reality.
Therefore, Katy Perry’s question “Is math related to science?” is not a silly or stupid question at all. It is a valid and meaningful question that invites further exploration and discussion. It also shows that Katy Perry is not afraid to ask questions and learn new things, which is a commendable attitude for anyone who wants to expand their knowledge and understanding of the world.
