[Reflections about the relationship of science and art].
Science is dealing with the nature, the human beings and the society, and aims to explore the laws of their existence. It uses universal scientific methods, by taking all known laws of nature into consideration. It is free of subjectivity and is guided by a high degree of consciousness. In the author's view, the goal of science is to create a balance between man and nature by exploring the rules of the universe. Art, on the other hand, carries a message about the man and the world, which originates in both emotion and intuition. It intends to impress our feelings and wishes to entertain, create pleasure or make us accept its message. One might wonder about the nature of relationship between art and science. Do we scientists waste our valuable time when dealing with art? Furthermore, is it of any use for artists to deal with science? Ever since the ancient times, scientists have been highly appreciated. Artists, however, used to belong to lower social classes up until the 18th century. Still, the commercial and political life of the Middle Ages were greatly influenced by the guildes, where artists as craftsmen belonged to. Art and science have always been interconnected, although their contents and messages kept changing during the centuries. In the 5th century, sciences were listed among the "septem artes liberales", the "seven free arts". When comparing the creative process of art and science, we might find similarities and differences, some of which will be discussed in the paper. Both research and clinical profession demands devoted work. One of the most valuable form of stress reduction and relaxation is the enjoyment or practice of art. Engagement in art as a form of hobby widens our horizon which in turn stimulates professional work. We might as well agree with the wise saying: Without hobby, one can neither relax nor concentrate.