features of science

Question 1

paradigm

Answer 1

a set of shared assumptions and agreed methods within a scientific discipline

Question 2

paradigm shift

Answer 2

occurs as a result of scientific revolution: a scientific change in the dominant unifying theory within a scientific discipline

e.g. the change from a Newtonian paradigm in physics towards Einstein’s theory of relativity

Question 3

theory

Answer 3

a set of general laws or principles that have the ability to explain particular events or behaviours

Question 4

theory construction

Answer 4

occurs through gathering evidence via the empirical method, creating hypotheses which can then be tested

Question 5

falsification

Answer 5

the principle that a theory cannot be considered scientific unless it admits to the possibility of being proved untrue

Question 6

replicability

Answer 6

the extent to which scientific procedures and findings can be repeated by other researchers

Question 7

objectivity

Answer 7

• occurs when all sources of personal bias are
  minimised so as not to distort or influence the research process
• the basis of the empirical method

Question 8

the empirical method

Answer 8

a scientific approach that is based on the gathering of evidence through direct observation and experience