Science, Engineering, and Technology: A Summary of the Differences
- Science: Expanding our understanding of nature.
- Engineering: Applying scientific knowledge to wisely utilize nature for the benefit of mankind, by developing new methods and tools to solve problems, control our surroundings, and improve our lives.
- Technology: Skillfully applying existing methods and tools to particular needs and wants.
Note that engineers need to know something of science and technology. Technologists need to know something of engineering but little of science. Scientists need to know little about engineering or technology, except as they require technology to construct their experiments.
Science is characterized by a relative unconcern for application (although scientists generally hope their work has some ultimate application). Engineering is distinguished from technology by the design of new technologies. Technology is distinguished from engineering by the expectation of skill in existing technologies.