In anticipation of the founding of Institute of Science Tokyo (Science Tokyo), soon-to-be members of the new Science Tokyo community were recently asked the question, "What is science?"
Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU) and Tokyo Institute of Technology (Tokyo Tech) merged on October 1, 2024, to form Science Tokyo. In July and August, students, faculty, and staff at TMDU and Tokyo Tech — including Tokyo Tech High School of Science and Technology — were invited to answer the question, "What is science?" to encourage idea sharing and further inquiry.
Respondents were asked to condense their thoughts into a short phrase in the form "Science is X," followed by a brief description of their submission. Roughly 200 members representing the new community sent in their suggestions. The following phrases, each accompanied by a visual representation of the phrase in question, were posterized and displayed across Science Tokyo’s campuses following its establishment in October.
What is science?
Science is the future.
There is nothing wrong with being content with the status quo. However, we can always envision a better, brighter future. The thoughts of those who did so in the past gradually accrued to turn imagination into reality. Each and every moment, science continues to create the future racing just ahead of "now."
Science is human warmth.
Why does science exist? Anyone trying to save or enrich people’s lives will struggle to do so alone. What can be done in cooperation with many people, while respecting various individual backgrounds, is surely significant. Connecting and empathizing with those around you is crucial.
Science is infinite.
The possibilities represented by "infinity" supply us with the joy of living. The pursuit of goals that extend far beyond the present creates delight that can translate into new knowledge and invention. By helping and supporting the lives of fellow humans, we naturally spread a sense of fulfillment and kindness to others. Science Tokyo sows the seeds of potential. Each individual waters these seeds, allowing an infinite number of flowers to bloom. Indeed, science can progress infinitely.
Science is magic.
Through science, we can achieve that elated feeling of solving a mystery, an experience that surpasses the limits of the imagination and deeply stirs one's emotions. This magic resonates with both the human heart and the rational mind. When deep aspirations become reality, the supporting theory transforms the experience into learning and power.
Science is creativity.
Asking questions such as "Why?" and "What is this?" is the key. Once you try a key and find that it opens a new door, you can't help but inquire further. In science, questions form the engine and imagination provides the fuel. Let us continue to explore the paths to which our hearts lead us.
Science is romance.
We study and rely on the map of our ideals, overcoming various difficulties as we move forward. At times, we take a detour or stray onto an alley that is nothing but a dead end. But surely, courageously treading into uncharted territory is the first step toward the discovery of personal treasures.
Science is freedom.
The more we unravel the unknown and deepen our understanding of natural phenomena, the more choices we have. Medical advances, for example, break the shackles of disease and empower us to choose a healthy, fruitful life. The driving force that will shape the future lies in the boundless curiosity of each individual.
Science is illumination.
When we persist with efforts to discover the unknown, we may suddenly see things in a new light. Through the accumulation of such efforts, the scope of illumination on potential knowledge gradually widens. When we feel uncertain about our way or the future, this radiance serves as a guidepost toward a brighter path ahead.
