5 Questions
The 1919 test bending starlight around the sun as a test of Einstein's Theory of Relativity is an example of the application of which scientific model?
Hypothetico-Deductive
Why is the deductive-nomological model sometimes referred to as such?
Because it is based on simple and straightforward laws of nature
What does it mean if something is considered to be a scientific law?
It is unchangeable and will always hold true in all times and places
Darwin's observations when he went on the voyage on the Beagle are examples of what type of scientific process?
Inductive science
When Henry Cadell used clay and built a device to see how compacting it affected it, this was an example of what?
Modeling
Study Notes
The Limitations of the Scientific Method
- The traditional textbook model of the scientific method is flawed and doesn't accurately represent how science is done.
- The textbook model involves developing hypotheses, deducing their consequences, and testing them in the natural world.
Problems with the Textbook Model
- The problem of the fallacy of affirming the consequent: false theories can make true predictions, so a correct prediction doesn't necessarily prove a theory is correct.
- Example: the Ptolemaic universe model made accurate predictions, but was later proven incorrect.
- The problem of auxiliary hypotheses: scientists make assumptions that may or may not be aware of, which can affect the outcome of experiments.
- Example: astronomers made incorrect assumptions about the size of the Earth's orbit and the sensitivity of telescopes, affecting their ability to detect the stellar parallax.
Inductive vs. Deductive Science
- A lot of science doesn't fit the traditional textbook model; instead, scientists often start with observations and work backwards to develop theories.
- Example: Charles Darwin's work, which was based on detailed observations of the natural world rather than a preconceived hypothesis.
The History of Science
- Albert Einstein's theory of general relativity predicted that light would bend around massive objects like the sun, but this is not a direct proof of the theory's correctness.
- The Ptolemaic universe model was widely accepted for centuries despite being incorrect, highlighting the limitations of the textbook model.
Explore the debate on whether belief in science should be based on the scientific method, and whether it truly guarantees the truth of scientific claims. This quiz delves into the concept of the scientific method taught in schools and its application in scientific research.
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