The Scientific Method and Knowledge Acquisition

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to the scientific method and knowledge acquisition as discussed in the lecture notes.

Scientific Method

A systematic approach to knowledge acquisition that seeks to ensure that understanding is based on evidence, i.e., unbiased data acquired through observation and experimentation.

Knowledge Acquisition

The process of acquiring knowledge through techniques such as rational inference, skepticism, and reliance on methodological materialism.

Claim

A specific assertion backed by evidence; it is subject to change if new evidence or reasoning arises.

Evidence

Information relevant to the validity of a claim, usually presented as data from studies.

Reasoning

The process of logically relating evidence to claims, which is crucial for establishing the validity of a scientific argument.

Inferential Strength

The strength of a scientific argument determined by the clarity of the claim, the quality and quantity of evidence, and sound reasoning.

Hypothesis

A causal explanation for a pattern or observation that is testable by study.

Prediction

A statement that must be observed under specified conditions if a hypothesis is true.

Inductive Reasoning

Reasoning from specific observations to form general conclusions, often used to generate hypotheses.

Deductive Reasoning

Reasoning from general claims to specific observations, where if premises are true, the conclusion must also be true.

Confounding Variables

Unknown variables that may affect the outcome of a study, necessitating controls to ensure valid conclusions.

Observational Study

A study where the researcher observes and characterizes variables without manipulation.

Manipulative Study

An experiment where the researcher intentionally changes one or more variables and compares the outcomes.

Extrapolation

Drawing inferences about a larger system based on results from a smaller model system.

Descriptive Claim

An assertion describing a pattern in the natural world without testing a hypothesis.

Hypothesis-Testing Claim

An assertion that tests the validity of a scientific hypothesis.

Statistical Analysis

The use of statistical methods to evaluate patterns in data and assess the strength of claims.

Controls

Procedures or conditions put in place to minimize the effects of confounding variables in an experiment.

Scientific Argument

A logical chain connecting claims, evidence, and reasoning to explain scientific findings.

Biological Hypothesis

A specific hypothesis pertaining to biological phenomena which can be tested scientifically.

Falsifiability

The principle that a hypothesis must be testable and able to be proven false.

Scientific Theory

An explanation for a set of related observations or phenomena based on confirmed hypotheses.

Scientific Fact

An observation that has been repeatedly confirmed and accepted as true.

Statistical Inference

The process of drawing conclusions about a population based on a sample.

Rationality

The quality of being based on or agreeable to reason; logic as the foundation for scientific argument.

Skepticism

An attitude of doubt towards claims that lack supporting evidence or clear reasoning.

Methodological Materialism

The principle that scientific explanations should rely solely on natural processes, excluding supernatural causes.

Hypothesis Generation

The process of formulating hypotheses to explain observed patterns.

Primary Production

The creation of organic compounds by producers (like plants) during photosynthesis.

Eutrophication

The process of nutrient enrichment in water bodies, often leading to excessive growth of algae.

Population

A group of individuals of the same species living in a specific area at the same time.

Sample

A subset of a population selected for measurement or observation.

Qualitative Data

Descriptive data that captures qualities or characteristics.

Quantitative Data

Numerical data that can be measured and expressed mathematically.