数学是术,化学是道——一位化学工程师的跨学科认知论

Mathematics as Technique, Chemistry as Dao: An Interdisciplinary Epistemology from a Chemical Engineer's Perspective Abstract The relationship between mathematics and chemistry constitutes a fundamental issue in the philosophy of science. From the perspective of an engineer with over three decades of experience in chemical engineering and coating technology, this paper proposes the core thesis: "Mathematics as Technique (Shu), Chemistry as Dao". The paper first examines the dialectical relationship between the "Shu-Dao distinction" in Chinese philosophy and the instrumentalist-realist debate in Western philosophy of science. On this basis, it advances the "Chemical Matrix Theory": chemistry precedes mathematics and physics; chemistry is the practitioner of cosmic creation; physical properties are phenomena, while chemical properties constitute essence. Through specific case analyses—including the Willow-Twig Theory, the Particle Zoo and the Eightfold Way, the lithopone double decomposition reaction, cobalt sulfate improvement of lightfastness, and a novel urea synthesis pathway—the paper demonstrates the predictive function of mathematics as a cognitive tool (Shu) and the essential status of chemistry as material truth (Dao). Furthermore, the paper proposes the "Unity of Shu and Dao" as an interdisciplinary cognitive model, supported by the Minimum Stability Principle and the Fourfold Coupling Model, elucidating the synergistic mechanism whereby "mathematics defines boundaries, chemistry realizes transformations." The study demonstrates that "Mathematics as Technique, Chemistry as Dao" possesses not only philosophical validity but also practical significance for engineering, offering a novel cognitive framework for interdisciplinary research.