4 hours ago
By Okan Nurettin Okur
This article explores the historical and philosophical development of chemistry from its alchemical roots to its modern scientific form. It examines how alchemy, combining ancient natural philosophy with mysticism, laid the foundations for experimental chemistry. Key philosophical debates about whether chemistry should be considered a theoretical or applied science are traced, with particular attention given to the views of Kant, Schelling, and Hegel. The metaphysical nature of matter is also addressed, emphasizing process philosophy and dynamic conceptions of being. By engaging with thinkers such as Gaston Bachelard, the notion of “metachemistry” is introduced as a philosophy of transformation and becoming. The challenges of axiomatizing chemistry compared to physics are further investigated due to the complexity of chemical systems. Ultimately, it is argued that chemistry is not only a natural science but also a philosophical and social endeavor that reveals the interconnectedness of nature, matter, and human inquiry.
https://www.academia.edu/144379777/Alche...imentation
This article explores the historical and philosophical development of chemistry from its alchemical roots to its modern scientific form. It examines how alchemy, combining ancient natural philosophy with mysticism, laid the foundations for experimental chemistry. Key philosophical debates about whether chemistry should be considered a theoretical or applied science are traced, with particular attention given to the views of Kant, Schelling, and Hegel. The metaphysical nature of matter is also addressed, emphasizing process philosophy and dynamic conceptions of being. By engaging with thinkers such as Gaston Bachelard, the notion of “metachemistry” is introduced as a philosophy of transformation and becoming. The challenges of axiomatizing chemistry compared to physics are further investigated due to the complexity of chemical systems. Ultimately, it is argued that chemistry is not only a natural science but also a philosophical and social endeavor that reveals the interconnectedness of nature, matter, and human inquiry.
https://www.academia.edu/144379777/Alche...imentation