The history of science has many functions. Historians should consider how their work contributes to various functions, going beyond a simple desire to understand the past correctly. There are both internal and external functions of the history of science in relation to science itself; I focus here on the internal, as they tend to be neglected these days. The internal functions can be divided into orthodox and complementary. The orthodox function is to assist with the understanding of the content and methods of science as it is now practised. The complementary function is to generate and improve scientific knowledge where current science itself fails to do so. Complementary functions of the history of science include the raising of critical awareness, and the recovery and extension of past scientific knowledge that has become forgotten or neglected. These complementary functions are illustrated with some concrete examples.

中文翻译：

---

谁在乎科学史？

科学史具有许多功能。历史学家应该考虑他们的工作如何促进各种功能，而不仅仅是对正确理解过去的简单渴望。与科学本身有关，科学史既有内部的功能，也有外部的功能。我将重点放在内部，因为这些天它们经常被忽略。内部功能可以分为正统的和互补的。正统功能是为了帮助理解目前实践的科学内容和方法。补充功能是在现有科学本身无法做到的情况下，产生和改善科学知识。科学历史的补充功能包括提高批判意识，以及恢复和扩展已被遗忘或忽视的过去科学知识。