The Scientific Method

Question 1

Three major features of scientific method

Answer 1

1. Observation
2. Skepticism
3. Objectivity

Question 2

Observation

Answer 2

Scientific knowledge is based on observation.

-It’s empirically verifiable knowledge

Question 3

Observation of what?

Answer 3

• Of phenomena that exists in the empirical world (things that can be observed through physical senses)

Question 4

Scientific Observations

Answer 4

Scientific observations are verifiable: it is possible for other scientists to make the same assumptions.

Question 5

What cannot be investigated scientifically?

Answer 5

Things such as philosophical propositions:

• about existence
• nature of the universe
• morality

Question 6

Objectivity

Answer 6

Science aims at objective knowledge (scientific knowledge is objective knowledge). This means that knowledge should not be influenced by emotion, values, personal bias or faith. Science must be value-free.

Question 7

Max Weber

Answer 7

Tried to make all sciences objective.

Question 8

Is complete objectivity possible?

Answer 8

No, it is acknowledged that complete objectivity is rarely, if ever, possible.

Question 9

Objectivity rules scientists follow

Answer 9

• Committed to make their work public
• They report their work in scientific publications
• In scientific conferences
• Their work is inspected by their peers and is subject to evaluation to ensure that it’s free from bias.
• They are commited to look for and rule out contrary evidence of their interpretations.

Question 10

Skepticism

Answer 10

The word “skeptical” comes from the Greek word skepticos, which means inquirer.

Scientists do not accept any claim about the world because an authority( religious authority, tradition or common sense) says it is true.

Question 11

Skepticism is…

Answer 11

• what leads scientists to disbelieve or question any claim or explanation that cannot be “proved” or supported by empirical evidence
• to be skeptical means: to suspend judgement until ALL the evidence has been scrutinized

Question 12

Skepticism implies that…

Answer 12

• scientific claims about the world are never “written in stone”( they are never absolute or final) because there is always more to learn.
• scientific knowledge is always open to change as a result or further scientific inquiry & new scientific discoveries.