The Nature of Science Itself Flashcards
What method of coming to knowledge does Mythbusters represent?
Empiricism
Can science answer all of our questions?
No science can only answer what can be tested
What system makes sure that journals are accurate?
The peer-review process
What is science 2.0?
Science 2.0 suggests that we have a ‘radical openness’ to science where it is more collaborative.
What is citizen science?
Citizen science is where anyone can contribute to science without any prior training or accreditation. This has both benefits and drawbacks.
What is the benefit to a scientist to be the first to publish a paper?
Benefits can include: fame, jobs, wealth, promotions, status, etc.
What are the strengths of the peer-review process? (4)
It is a great quality control mechanism, ideas that aren’t backed by evidence cannot prevail, it is good at producing practical solutions and methods and work builds incrementally upon itself.
What are the weaknesses of the peer-review process? (4)
It is poor at dealing with rare phenomena, can take a long time to weed out bad ideas, free-knowledge is limited by commercial gain and scientists can ignore ethical values in favor of publishing.
Can all questions be answered through the scientific method?
No
Why is it sometimes important to involve the public in the scientific process?
Because the general public in evidence collection makes it easier to collect data on rate phenomena.
What is peer-review?
Peer-review is when a paper is submitted for publication is critically examined by other scientists before it is published.
What key argument is made for science 2.0?
Science currently limits its own productivity by being too slow to adapt web-based technologies for information sharing.
What is the inherent weakness of the scientific research process?
The ideal of making knowledge freely available is often compromised.
