DAY 8 AST101

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture on the nature of science and its methodologies, focusing on the distinctions between scientific and non-scientific theories.

Scientific Method

A systematic process often taught in schools, used for testing theories and making observations.

Deductive Reasoning

A 'top-down' approach that starts with a theory to make predictions and then confirms or refutes these predictions through observations.

Inductive Reasoning

A 'bottom-up' approach that starts with general observations to find patterns and develop theories.

Falsifiability

The ability of a theory to make predictions that can be tested and potentially proven false.

Occam’s Razor

The principle that suggests the simplest explanation is usually the correct one.

Astrology

A belief that the positions of celestial bodies can influence human behavior and events on Earth.

Scientific Theory

A well-substantiated explanation of an aspect of the natural world based on a body of evidence.

Hypothesis

A proposed explanation made on the basis of limited evidence as a starting point for further investigation.

Observation

The action of observing something or someone carefully in order to gain information.

Experiment

A scientific procedure undertaken to test a hypothesis and discover an unknown effect or law.