Technikatörténeti szemle 25. (2001-02)

Papers of the Third International Conference on the History of Chemistry and Chemical Industry (Budapest, 2–4 July, 1999) – First Part - Inczédy János: The role and responsibility of scientists influencing the wordl; past, present and future

Table I. Predominant fields of sciences in western civilisation

2 Year Field of science Technical products -2000 - 1000 -500 2000 500 1000 1500 1800 0 Mathematics Physics Chemistry Material structure Biology Informatics Astronomy Geometry Mechanics (Theology) Calender Metallurgy Architecture Water engine Textiles, smithery Navigation Printing Steam engine, electricity Chemical synthesis Biotechnology Computers At the time, when the principles of ancient astronomy were laid down, it was sufficient to observe the motions of the stars directly. The time was measured by counting the days and years. Upon creating the laws of geometry Euklides (500 B.C.) used simple devices: to measure the distances and angles. Eratosthenes (250 B.C.) using geometrical principles extended the limits of the accessible range of information and determined the diameter of the Earth by calculation. Theology is also included in the table, having significant influence on the European thinking. Chemical properties, like chemical composition, or structure cannot be observed directly with sensory organs. They are typical "hidden properties", which used to be unavailable directly (only by speculation). The development of modern chemistry is dated from the time, when physical knowledge reached the level at which the first instrumental analytical measurements were possible to be performed

3

. The principles of electricity, radiology had been also hidden for long, but discovered and used in practice widely in the last two centuries. The biological properties are hidden deeper, (i.e. in the second level) compared to the above mentioned chemical, electric, or radiation properties. Therefore, to receive reliable information concerning biological processes, simultaneous measurements of 5-10 different measurable quantities and a complicated mathematical evaluation process are necessary. Technical developments The results obtained in the gradually multiplying fields of sciences have been used to develop new technical products, to open new horizon for human recognition, and to improve the comfort and quality of human life: - winding up the most arduous labours; - arresting devastating epidemics;