Synthesisbased

Synthesisbased is a term used in multiple disciplines to describe approaches that prioritize synthesis over analysis or decomposition. It denotes methods, processes, or viewpoints that aim to create cohesive wholes by combining diverse elements, data, or ideas. Because the term is not standardized, its exact meaning varies by field.

In chemistry and materials science, synthesisbased denotes strategies that emphasize the design and execution of synthetic routes and the integration of different building blocks to achieve target substances or properties. In information science and artificial intelligence, synthesisbased approaches may focus on combining outputs from multiple models, datasets, or modalities to generate integrated results or novel insights. In the arts and humanities, synthesisbased can describe practices that blend styles, genres, or historical periods to produce new works or critical perspectives.

Common characteristics include a holist orientation, iterative refinement, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and a focus on emergent properties of the assembled whole rather than the properties of its individual parts. This orientation supports the creation of novel integrations but can complicate evaluation and replication.

Benefits include potential for innovation, system-level understanding, and adaptability. Limitations include challenges in reproducibility, scalability, and attribution of contributions from constituent parts. Critics may argue that synthesisbased approaches risk obscuring underlying mechanisms if overemphasized.

See also: synthesis, holism, integrative methods, creative synthesis, generative design.