Paradigms and Theories in Scientific Research

12 vocabulary flashcards covering key terms related to paradigms, axioms, theories, and the scientific method.

Scientific Method

A systematic process for acquiring knowledge that involves forming hypotheses, collecting empirical data, and using logical reasoning to draw conclusions.

Objectivity

The principle that research should be free from personal bias, relying on observable, measurable evidence.

Empirical Evidence

Information obtained through direct observation or experiment, forming the basis for scientific conclusions.

Falsifiability

A quality of a hypothesis or theory that allows it to be disproved by empirical testing.

Publicness & Replicability

The requirement that scientific procedures and results be openly shared so others can repeat the study and verify findings.

Paradigm

A broad conceptual framework or worldview that guides researchers’ assumptions and methods and is often resistant to change.

Axiom

A foundational statement accepted as true within a paradigm and not tested empirically in the study itself.

Theory

A concise, coherent set of ideas that organizes findings, generates new hypotheses, and can evolve while remaining compatible with existing paradigms or axioms.

Deductive Theory

A theory built from general logical arguments before observation, moving from broad principles to specific predictions.

Inductive Theory

A theory derived from specific observations, moving from particular cases to general explanations.

Parsimony (Occam’s Razor)

The guideline that, among competing theories, the simplest explanation with the fewest assumptions is preferred.

Modus Ponens

A valid deductive reasoning form: If P then Q; P is true, therefore Q must also be true.