Scientific method
From HomoExcelsior
Contents |
Definition
The systematic collection and classification of data and, usually, the formulation and testing of hypotheses based on data.
In essence, the scientific method contains two steps. First, scientists observe nature and summarize the results of these observations in mathematical structures called hypothesii. Next, the hypothesii are used to predict the results of new, as yet un-observed processes, and these predictions are compared to what happens when the new experiments of observations are carried out. In this way, knowledge is extended to new areas.
The observation of phenomena and the construction of hypothesii are not separate activities, but go hand in hand and influence each other. Without a foundation based on previous observations, a hypothesis is simply speculation. A hypothesis that does not predict observable and repeatable results is also not scientifically valid.
After a hypothesis has been tried and proven, it becomes a theory. This process is described more thouroughly in the steps below:
Observation of Phenomena
Without first observing (in reality or speculation in conjunction with real observations), it is very difficult to formulate a hypothesis. This step is the very basis of scientific advancement. A "hypothesis" based only on speculation is only that: idle speculation. To create a hypothesis valid of study, reality based observations must be included.
Fantastic and wildly speculative "hypothesii" are fine for science fiction; but to advance science, all hypothesii must build upon previous science and experiments. Science is very much like a deck of cards, each new item must be supported by previous work, and the more sturdy the foundation: the stronger the science and the eventual theory.
Formulation of a Hypothesis
Coming up with a plausible hypothesis can be the hardest part of this process; especially if this is the nth iteration of the cycle and previous hypothesii have proven untenable. However, it is important that potential scientists realize that they must continue to base their hypothesii on already accepted theories.
Creation of an Experiment
With a new hypothesis in hand, the scientist must come up with a series of experiments that can prove or disprove the new idea. The experiment must have the following characteristics:
- Sufficient scope to define the boundary conditions of the hypothesis,
- Controls to verify the cause of phenomena,
- Reproducibility.
If an experiment cannot be reproduced under the same conditions as described in the procedure by a second scientist, the results and data must be called into question. This kind of scenario is common with so called new-age science, pseudo-science and the soft sciences (psychology, sociology, etc...)
Analysis of Experimental (Empirical) Data
Finding a trend in a huge mess of data can be akin to finding a needle in a haystack, but perseverance is the key. A scientist must be open to finding out that their hypothesis is wrong. Even the process of eliminating a hypothesis is scientific progress, so even if an experiment fails, it is a success: you have eliminated one possibility, reducing the number of future experiments in order to come up with a working theory.
Evolution and Defense of a Theory
With the analysis of the data, a hypothesis must be checked to see if it fits the results. If changes must be made, it is time to return to step 2.
If the data matches the hypothesis exactly, has been reproduced by several scientists, and has defined boundaries of its definition; the hypothesis becomes a theory.
The creation of a theory is fluid and dynamic as all are scientific processes. However, logical thinking should not be limited to academic researchers; anyone can use this method when faced with ideas and phenomenae they do not understand.
In this time of constantly accelerating technological and scientific progress, it is important to be able to debunk the wrong-science and still be open to new ideas. Just as it is wrong to accept any new idea, it is equally injust to judge an idea as impossible without first examining the process from which it arose.
New research is always being documented, and it is nearly impossible to keep up to date on everything being done. By following the spirit -- if not the steps -- of the scientific method, anyone should be able to make up their minds as to the validity of a proposition or hypothesis.
