First Week Flashcards
How do scientists use the word “theory?
It refers to a comprehensive explanation of some aspect of nature that is supported by a vast body of evidence. One of the most useful properties of scientific theories is that they can be used to make predictions about natural events or phenomena that have not yet been observed.
What is natural science?
Natural science is the development of theory to explain the structure and operation of the natural world. Constrained by two philosophical premises : methodological naturalism and realism
What is methodological naturalism, and why is it an essential part of natural science?
Methodological naturalism is a philosophical belief that no supernatural power is an excuse for the operation of the world. This belief is an essential part because it erases any connection to religious beliefs and the operation of the world.
What is a hypothesis?
Created by an iterative process of observation, hypothesis generation and hypothesis testing.
How are hypotheses assessed (using the scientific method)?
Hypothesis —> Research Study (If hypothesis is correct, what result is expected? If hypothesis is incorrect, what result is expected?) —> Conclusion (Hypothesis is supported/not supported)
- observation, casual question, research study, conclusion*
What is Occam’s razor?
When trying to explain an observation, begin with the explanation that requires the fewest testable assumptions. The simplest explanation isn’t always correct, but it’s the right place to start.
Briefly explain the following errors in reasoning: false correlation, post hoc ergo propter hoc, false dichotomy, appeal to ignorance, appeal to authority, ad hominem, self-knowing, observational selection, and argument from adverse consequences.
False correlation ex: The more firetrucks that show up to a fire, the more damage. (This correlation is not true, the bigger the fire is, the more firetrucks that are needed in order to put it out. The amount of firetrucks is not causing the increased damage).
Post Hoc Ergo Propter Hoc ex : Autism is diagnosed after early childhood vaccinations. Therefore, autism is cause by early childhood vaccines. However, autism is also diagnosed after children learn how to walk. (So, really there is no correlation between the vaccines and autism, it just fits there belief because children are able to get tested for autism after they’ve received the vaccine).
False Dichotomy ex : All living things are composed of cells. Viruses are not composed of cells. Therefore, viruses are not alive. (Which some are, therefore this is false).
Appeal to Ignorance ex : No one can be absolutely sure that Bigfoot does not exist. Therefore, we should assume Bigfoot exists. (We shouldn’t assume just because we are not 100% sure).
Appeal to Authority ex : Dr. Watson’s views on quantum computing are meaningless, because he believes in the existence of Bigfoot. (People’s views should not be held to lesser standards/not believed and respected just because their beliefs may differ).
Ad Hominem : is the flip-side to appeal to authority.
Personal Incredulity/Self-Knowing ex : “I’m a pretty smart person, it doesn’t seem possible to me. Therefore, that should be taken as evidence against it” (Your opinion is not evidence).
