Modern science encompasses three major branches: the natural sciences, the social sciences, and the formal sciences. The natural sciences delve into the study of nature in its broadest sense, including biology, chemistry, physics, astronomy, and Earth science. These disciplines aim to understand the physical world and its phenomena, ranging from microscopic organisms to celestial bodies. For instance, biology explores living organisms and their interactions, while astronomy investigates celestial objects and phenomena in outer space.
On the other hand, the social sciences focus on understanding people and societies. Disciplines such as psychology, sociology, economics, and history analyze human behavior, social interactions, economic systems, and historical events. By employing various methodologies, these fields seek to unravel the complexities of human society, including cultural norms, social structures, and individual behaviors.
Lastly, the formal sciences deal with abstract concepts and logical reasoning. This branch includes disciplines like mathematics, logic, and statistics. Formal sciences provide the theoretical framework and tools necessary for advancing knowledge in other scientific fields. They establish the principles of logical reasoning and quantitative analysis, essential for both natural and social sciences.
(Response: The branches of science include the natural sciences, social sciences, and formal sciences.)