Core Principles of Science Flashcards
Empiricism
Science relies on observation and experimentation, where scientists gather data through careful observation and controlled experiments to test their hypotheses.
Rationality
Science uses logical reasoning and critical thinking to analyze data, drawing conclusions while striving for objectivity and avoiding bias.
Testability
Scientific hypotheses must be able to be tested and potentially proven wrong, meaning there needs to be a way to design an experiment or observation that could disprove the hypothesis.
Parsimony
When there are multiple explanations for a phenomenon, scientists favor the simplest explanation that fits all the observed evidence, a principle known as Occam’s Razor.
Objectivity
Scientists aim for objectivity in their observations and interpretations, acknowledging the limitations of their research and working to avoid personal biases.