How do we define a scientist?
A few years ago, the Science Council put forward a definition of science. We would now like to turn our thoughts to the person that does the science.
What are the core skills, characteristics, the clues that identify someone as a ‘scientist’? Or perhaps it is easier to explore what is a scientist not? We do know there are lots of different disciplinary scientists – mathematicians, social scientists, microbiologists – but what is it that unites these practitioners under the banner of ‘scientist’?
I studied science at university, but I’m not sure that alone qualifies me to call myself a scientist. I’d like to think that my scientific approach – albeit to managing an organisation, rather than research, development or teaching – could qualify me, or is there more to it?
We have put together a first draft definition below. I invite you to read it, reflect on it and comment, or tweet us @science_council, to let us know what you think is missing and what is extraneous. We will be sharing an updated draft with our Board next month for their input and approval.
A scientist is someone who systematically gathers and uses research and evidence, making a hypothesis and testing it, to gain and share understanding and knowledge.
A scientist can be further defined by:
- how they go about this, for instance by use of statistics (Statisticians) or data (Data scientists)
- what they’re seeking understanding of, for instance the elements in the universe (Chemists, Geologists etc), or the stars in the sky (Astronomers)
- where they apply their science, for instance in the food industry (Food Scientist)
However all scientists are united by their relentless curiosity and systematic approach to assuaging it.
I look forward to your feedback.