ABSTRACT
The term 'foundation' disciplines is used in two different but related senses. In the first, disciplines constitute a 'base' or 'source' of knowledge that has a clear supporting connection with a superstructure of practice. Since disciplines are a foundation, this implies that the knowledge base is secure and reliable as a consistent evidential feature. Medicine and engineering are often used as examples: the former based on disciplines such as anatomy and biochemistry, the latter on physics and mathematics. These disciplines are seen as having a demonstrable relationship to the practice of medicine and engineering, providing explanations and descriptions of the world upon which practice must be based if patients are not to die and bridges fall down!
