Ontologi Ilmu Pengetahuan: Telaah Hakikat Realitas, Objek Ilmu, dan Implikasinya dalam Pengembangan Pengetahuan

Ontology is a branch of philosophy concerned with being, the structure of reality, and the nature of the objects investigated by knowledge. Within the philosophy of science, ontological inquiry matters because it shapes what is considered real, what may be studied, and which assumptions underpin explanations of phenomena. This article aims to explain the nature of scientific ontology, describe different kinds of scientific objects, and analyze its implications for contemporary knowledge development. The study uses a qualitative library-research method by examining relevant philosophy-of-science books and scholarly articles. A descriptive-critical analysis is conducted through concept identification, comparison of perspectives, and thematic synthesis, including a dialogue with the layered ontology of Islamic philosophy. The discussion indicates that ontology is not limited to observable physical things; it may also concern abstract entities, relations, processes, and social constructs that can be investigated systematically. Different ontological assumptions influence problem formulation, object selection, research approaches, and interpretation of findings. Researchers should therefore make their ontological assumptions explicit and align them consistently with epistemology and research methods. Ontological awareness can strengthen conceptual precision, openness to alternative perspectives, and academic responsibility in knowledge production.