How Science (really) Works

How Science (really) Works

  • A scientific theory is one that can be disproved (or “falsified”).

  • Empirical sciences use both data and logic to test theories.

    • Contrast with rational science, which only uses logic.

  • It’s relatively easy to summarize data.

  • The logical rules can rarely be summarized simply.

    • Example: “A correlation doesn’t imply causation” is true, but highly misleading.

Logic in Science

  • One of the most important logical rules used in science is Modus Tollens.

    • Assume: p→qp \rightarrow q (can be read as “if p, then q”).

    • Observe: ¬q\neg q (read as “not q”).

    • Conclude: ∴¬p\therefore \neg p (read as “therefore not p”).

    • This is a valid argument.

Logic in Science

  • One of the most common logical errors in science is known as “affirming the consequent.