Metaphors in Science and Art: Enhancing HumanAwareness and Perception

Science and art are commonly considered as two separate cultures, which differ in both tongue and value. However, while the material artifacts produced by science and art are markedly different, the creative cognitive process of their construction is closely related – both cultures use a metaphorical language, which sharpens perception of details and enhances awareness of structure. The strong societal association of science with technology and of art with aesthetics masks the cognitive similarities. By re-emphasizing these similarities, we hope to gain access to a student population who was previously alienated by the utilitarian, impersonal presentation of science.