Is

Computer Science Science

By: Ferdows Shahryar
May, 2016

Computer Science a new field yet has a depth history of being in the academic era from the
time when the first basic calculator invented or prior to that and talking about theories of
solving complexities.
Since many papers and blogs discussed about Computer Science is Science? here this paper
compares the arguments of Peter J. Denning and Jonah Kagan; the two authors on the above
topic.
To define computer science, I would rather cite the Peter J. Denning definition as: Computer
science is a discipline that spans theory and practice. It requires thinking both in abstract terms
and in concrete terms [1]. To point out the abstract and concrete, theory and practice terms
in definition, it would clearly describe that Computer Science same as other Sciences working
on a theory which normally called hypothesis and focusing on the practical side of it which is
the proof or result.
Before going in depth about is CS is science? I would prefer to find the root of the Computer
science presence.
Peter J. Denning stated about Computer Science which is originated from mathematics,
however from current era we can reveal that Computer Science is derived from Electrical field
of study as well.
Accepting these two theories would simply get a new answer that, Computer Science is an
interdisciplinary field of study which is derived from Mathematics and Electronics. As
Mathematics and Electronics are already accepted as science, therefore we can affirm that
Computer Science is an interdisciplinary Scientific field of study.
Reference:
[1] Peter Denning, CACM, April 2005/Vol. 48, No. 4, pp. 27 - 31, "Is Computer Science Science?"

[2] J. Kagan, (2012, August). Computer science isn't a science and it isn't about computers.
[Online].