[PatrickHenry]

I thought it was widly known that science was originally considered a branch of philosophy, called "natural philosophy," to distinguish it from theology. People we now call scientists were, as recently as Darwin's time, called philosophers.

[RightWhale]

I have always thought of it that way. A lot of people don't, however, so when conversing with strangers we have to ask a question or two before proceeding.

[Chemist_Geek]

I thought it was widly known that science was originally considered a branch of philosophy, called "natural philosophy," to distinguish it from theology. People we now call scientists were, as recently as Darwin's time, called philosophers.

Correct. A science Ph.D. is a doctorate of (natural) philosophy.