Znanosti

Znanosti are broad terms used to describe the systematic study of phenomena in the natural world, human society, and abstract structures of knowledge. In Croatian and other South Slavic languages, znanost means science, and znanosti is the plural form, referring to the sciences as a whole or to individual disciplines. Znanosti aim to produce reliable explanations, predictions, and technologies through observation, experimentation, and theoretical modeling. They are typically organized into natural sciences, social sciences, and formal sciences, with many applied disciplines closely linked to engineering, medicine, and technology.

Etymology and scope: The root of znanost comes from the verb znati, meaning to know. The term reflects a long-standing human pursuit of knowledge and understanding. While the word is most common in Croatian, Serbian, Bosnian, and closely related languages, similar concepts appear in many linguistic traditions around the world.

Branches and examples: Natural sciences study the physical world and living systems (for example, physics, chemistry, biology, geology). Social sciences examine human behavior and societies (for example, sociology, psychology, economics, political science). Formal sciences concern abstract systems and logical structures (for example, mathematics, logic, computer science). Applied sciences translate knowledge into practical technologies and solutions (for example, engineering, environmental science, medicine).

Methods and institutions: Znanosti rely on the scientific method, including observation, hypothesis testing, experimentation, and modeling, with emphasis on reproducibility and peer review. They are advanced within universities, research institutes, and collaborations funded by public and private sectors. Scholarly communication occurs through journals, conferences, and increasingly open-access platforms.

Impact and challenges: Znanosti drive innovation, policy, and education, while facing challenges such as ethical considerations, data privacy, reproducibility concerns, and the need to address global issues like climate change and inequality.