«PHILOSOPHY OF CHEMISTRY» – PHILOSOPHICAL-METHODOLOGICAL STUDY OF CHEMICAL SCIENCE

Abstract

The article examines the philosophy of chemistry as an important interdisciplinary field
that influences pedagogical approaches to teaching chemistry. The main philosophical concepts
such as reductionism and holism, scientific realism and antirealism, as well as the use of models
and analogies are discussed. The article highlights how these concepts can be integrated into the
educational process, contributing to the development of critical thinking and understanding of
complex chemical concepts. Practical recommendations for teachers are offered, including the
use of interactive teaching methods, contextualization of educational material and the use of
technology. The study highlights the importance of a philosophical approach to prepare students
for a conscious perception of science and its impact on modern society. There are also key
philosophical issues related to the ontology of matter, the problem of reductionism, the role of
models and idealizations in chemistry, as well as causality and explanatory models. Considerable
attention is paid to the analysis of methodological aspects, such as experimental and theoretical
methods, as well as interdisciplinary approaches linking chemistry with other sciences. The article
emphasizes the importance of philosophical and methodological understanding of chemistry for a
deeper understanding of scientific processes and the evolution of chemical concepts.