Science and Hypothesis Flashcards
1
Q
Define: scientific explanation.
A
A theoretical account of some fact or event, predicated upon empirical evidence and subject to revision in the light of new information.
2
Q
Define: unscientific explanation.
A
An explanation that is asserted dogmatically and regarded as unquestionable.
3
Q
What are the seven stages of scientific inquiry?
A
- identifying the problem
- devising preliminary hypotheses
- collecting additional facts
- formulating the explanatory hypothesis
- deducing further consequences
- testing the consequences
- applying the theory
4
Q
What are the three criteria for judging the merit of competing hypotheses?
A
- compatibility with previously well-established hypotheses
- predictive power
- simplicity
5
Q
Define: classification.
A
The organization and division of large collections of things into an ordered system of groups and subgroups, often used in the construction of scientific hypotheses.
