Oxford defines science as “the intellectual and practical activity encompassing the systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world through observation and experiment.” While this definition is certainly accurate, I believe the concept of science can be understood in a much simpler, yet profound, way.

In Sanskrit, the term “विज्ञान” (Vigyān) is used to describe science. “Gyān” means “knowledge,” and “विज्ञान” (Vigyan) is derived from “विशेष ज्ञान” (Vishesh gyān), which translates to “special knowledge.” To put it simply, science is the pursuit of special knowledge — whether that knowledge relates to the physical world, our emotions, the tangible or intangible, the material or the abstract.

Thus, science isn’t just about experiments and formulas; it’s about a deeper understanding of the world around us, both seen and unseen, known and unknown.