Introduction to Science Overview

Study Notes

Definition of Science

Systematic enterprise that builds and organizes knowledge.
Utilizes observation, experimentation, and analysis.

Branches of Science

Natural Sciences
- Study of the physical world.
- Includes physics, chemistry, biology, astronomy, and earth sciences.
Formal Sciences
- Study of abstract concepts.
- Includes mathematics, logic, and statistics.
Social Sciences
- Study of human behavior and societies.
- Includes psychology, sociology, anthropology, and economics.
Applied Sciences
- Practical application of scientific knowledge.
- Includes engineering, medicine, and technology.

Scientific Method

Observation: Identify a phenomenon or problem.
Question: Formulate a question based on observations.
Hypothesis: Propose a testable explanation.
Experimentation: Design and conduct experiments to test the hypothesis.
Analysis: Examine data and draw conclusions.
Reporting: Share findings with the scientific community.

Key Concepts

Theory: A well-substantiated explanation of an aspect of the natural world.
Law: A statement based on repeated experimental observations that describes some aspect of the world.
Peer Review: Process where research is evaluated by experts before publication.

Importance of Science

Drives technological advancement.
Informs public policy and decision-making.
Enhances understanding of the universe and our place in it.
Addresses global challenges such as health, environment, and sustainability.

Ethical Considerations

Responsible conduct in research.
Importance of integrity, honesty, and transparency.
Consideration of societal impacts and ethical implications of scientific discoveries.

Definition of Science

Systematic process for building and organizing knowledge.
Employs techniques of observation, experimentation, and analysis to explore phenomena.

Branches of Science

Natural Sciences: Focuses on the study of the physical universe; includes disciplines such as physics, chemistry, biology, astronomy, and earth sciences.
Formal Sciences: Concerned with abstract concepts; encompasses mathematics, logic, and statistics.
Social Sciences: Analyzes human behavior and societal structures; includes psychology, sociology, anthropology, and economics.
Applied Sciences: Involves the practical application of scientific principles; includes fields like engineering, medicine, and technology.

Scientific Method

Observation: Begin by identifying a phenomenon or specific problem.
Question: Develop a question based on initial observations.
Hypothesis: Formulate a testable explanation to address the question.
Experimentation: Create and perform experiments to evaluate the hypothesis.
Analysis: Review the collected data and derive conclusions from the findings.
Reporting: Communicate the results and insights to the scientific community for evaluation.

Key Concepts

Theory: A comprehensive explanation rooted in substantial evidence that clarifies aspects of the natural world.
Law: A descriptive statement generated from consistent experimental observations that define a specific phenomenon.
Peer Review: Evaluative process involving experts critiquing research before it is published, ensuring credibility and scientific rigor.

Importance of Science

Catalyzes advancements in technology and innovation.
Provides foundational knowledge for informed public policy and decision-making.
Aids in comprehending the universe and humanity's role within it.
Addresses critical global issues, including health, environmental concerns, and sustainability.

Ethical Considerations

Promotes responsible conduct in research practices.
Emphasizes the importance of integrity, honesty, and transparency in scientific endeavors.
Considers the social impacts and ethical ramifications of scientific research and discoveries.

Description

Explore the fundamental concepts of science, including its definition, branches, and the scientific method. Delve into natural, formal, social, and applied sciences, and understand how the scientific method fosters inquiry and knowledge building.