The Scientific Method: Knowledge Acquisition and the Quality of Science

Flashcards focused on the key concepts and definitions related to the scientific method and knowledge acquisition.

What are the four requirements for science to result in knowledge acquisition?

Rationality, skepticism, objectivity, and methodological materialism.

What are the components of a scientific argument?

Claim, evidence, reasoning.

What is the difference between a hypothesis and a theory?

A hypothesis is a testable statement, while a theory is a well-substantiated explanation of an aspect of the natural world.

How does science proceed according to Karl Popper?

Science proceeds by rejecting, not proving, hypotheses.

Define inductive reasoning.

Inductive reasoning is reasoning from specific observations to general conclusions.

Define deductive reasoning.

Deductive reasoning is reasoning from general statements to specific conclusions.

What is extrapolation in scientific studies?

Extrapolation is inferring results from model systems to broader contexts.

What are confounding variables?

Variables that may influence the dependent and independent variables, potentially skewing results.

What distinguishes observational from manipulative studies?

Observational studies measure and describe without manipulation, while manipulative studies involve intentional changes to variables.

How does the quality of evidence affect a scientific claim?

The quality and quantity of evidence directly influence the strength of the claim.