Scientific Methodologies

Question 1

Discuss scientific objectivity

Answer 1

Attempting to uncover truths about the natural world by eliminating personal biases, emotions and false beliefs.

Often linked to observation as a part of the scientifc method

Question 2

What is scientific inquiry?

Answer 2

Diverse ways in which scientists study the natural world and propose explanations based on the evidence derived from their work.

Question 3

What are the 3 methods that scientists use to acquire knowledge?

Answer 3

• Inductive
• Deductive
• Hypothetico-Deductive

Question 4

Inductive vs. Deductive Reasoning

Answer 4

Inductive reasoning- The act of making generalized conclusions based on specific scenarios (Bottom-up). Eg. Black Swan Theory. NB: Plato

Deductive reasoning- The act of backing up generalized statements with specific scenarios (Top-down). Aimed at proving the law/theory. NB: Aristotle

Question 5

Sound vs Unsound Deductive Arguements

Answer 5

A sound arguement is valid and has true premises.

An unsound arguement is invalid and/or has at least one false premises.

An arguement can be logically valid but unsound

Question 6

What is the hypothetico-Deductive Approach?

Answer 6

This approach is testing multiple hypotheses. Karl Popper suggested that proper science is accomplished by deduction which invlolves the process of flasification.