Difference between revisions of "Natural science"
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| − | + | Science refers to a system of acquiring knowledge based on the [[scientific method]], as well as to the organized body of knowledge gained through such research. | |
Science is based on the ontological position of [[Empiricism]], which states that knowledge must be based upon observable phenomena that are both testable (their valididty can be falsified) and repeatable (another researcher, working under the same conditions, can produce a similar result). Science is not to be confused with [[Materialism]], the view that the material realm is all that exists. As a rule, science does not discount the existence of non-observable phenomena, however since theories concerned with such matters are not falsifiable they are not amenable to empirical investigation, and are therefore not topics that science addresses. | Science is based on the ontological position of [[Empiricism]], which states that knowledge must be based upon observable phenomena that are both testable (their valididty can be falsified) and repeatable (another researcher, working under the same conditions, can produce a similar result). Science is not to be confused with [[Materialism]], the view that the material realm is all that exists. As a rule, science does not discount the existence of non-observable phenomena, however since theories concerned with such matters are not falsifiable they are not amenable to empirical investigation, and are therefore not topics that science addresses. | ||
Revision as of 01:47, March 17, 2007
Science refers to a system of acquiring knowledge based on the scientific method, as well as to the organized body of knowledge gained through such research.
Science is based on the ontological position of Empiricism, which states that knowledge must be based upon observable phenomena that are both testable (their valididty can be falsified) and repeatable (another researcher, working under the same conditions, can produce a similar result). Science is not to be confused with Materialism, the view that the material realm is all that exists. As a rule, science does not discount the existence of non-observable phenomena, however since theories concerned with such matters are not falsifiable they are not amenable to empirical investigation, and are therefore not topics that science addresses.
Our understanding of the universe has been increasing exponentially since Mankind discovered agriculture 5000 years ago, accelerating yet further with the notable developments of Scientific Method- the system of hypothesis, experiment, and refinement that must be used to meet strict peer-review procedures used today, and increasing computer power over the last 50 years.
An idea that can explain many observations and experimental results is called a scientific theory. Scientific theories are not absolute, since they can not be proved correct; they can only be proved false by finding contrary evidence. A theory will be widely accepted by scientists if it explains many facts without clear contrary evidence.
Some scientific discoveries appear to be in conflict with a literal interpretation of many holy books, including the Bible. However, science and empiricism make no claims about the nature of any potential supernatural, immaterial realm, as these are impossible to assess empirically. Many scientists use philosophical tools such as Occam's Razor and point to phenomena such as The God of the Gaps to argue for an implicit rejection of untestable hypotheses.