Understanding the Functions of Science

The question asks to identify the incorrect statement(s) regarding the functions of science, specifically referencing its role "ever since the time of the Arabs". Science, throughout history, has been understood to serve specific purposes. Let's analyze each statement:

Analyzing the Statements

• Statement 1: To enable us to know things
  This statement aligns with the core purpose of science, which is the pursuit of knowledge and understanding of the natural world through observation, experimentation, and logical reasoning. This is widely accepted as a primary function of science.
• Statement 2: To enable us to practice things
  Science often leads to practical applications and technological advancements. However, the function of science itself is primarily about discovery and understanding. While practice is a significant outcome, it might be considered secondary or derivative rather than a fundamental function in the same category as acquiring knowledge. Based on the provided correct answer, this statement is considered incorrect in this context.
• Statement 3: To enable us to follow things
  This statement implies adherence or compliance. Science aims to discover how things are and why, rather than enabling us to 'follow' them in a prescriptive sense. This does not represent a standard function attributed to scientific inquiry. Hence, this is considered an incorrect statement.
• Statement 4: To enable us to be aware
  Being aware of the natural world, its phenomena, and the principles governing them is a direct result of scientific understanding. Similar to 'knowing things', scientific knowledge leads to awareness. This is generally seen as a valid function or outcome of science.

Identifying the Wrong Statements

The question asks for the statement(s) that are wrong. Based on the analysis:

• Statement 1 (knowing) and Statement 4 (awareness) are generally considered valid functions or outcomes of science.
• Statement 3 (following) is clearly not a function of science.
• Statement 2 (practice) is debatable, but in the context of differentiating core functions from outcomes, it might be excluded. The provided correct answer indicates that both Statement 2 and Statement 3 are considered the incorrect ones.

Conclusion

The statements identified as incorrect are "To enable us to practice things" and "To enable us to follow things". Therefore, the option that includes both 2 and 3 is the correct choice representing the wrong statements.

Referencing the options provided:

• Option 1: 1 & 2 only
• Option 2: 2 & 3 only
• Option 3: 1 & 3 only
• Option 4: 4 & 3 only

The combination of statements 2 and 3 being incorrect matches Option 2.