What is Science? (Lecture 3)

Introduction

• Third part of a four-part series on answering the question: What is science?
• Based on the natural science quiz by Larry Flamer

Misconception: Science as an Uncreative Process

• Many people believe science is uncreative.
• Creativity is essential at every step:
  • Formulating hypotheses
  • Designing experiments
  • Choosing control variables and dependent variables
  • Analyzing and interpreting data
• Science involves a complex interaction of four broad methods:
  1. Descriptive
  2. Modeling
  3. Theoretical
  4. Experimental

Descriptive Methods

• Scientists describe the world in detail (e.g., botanists, entomologists, astronomers).
• Examples:
  • Botanist describing a new plant
  • Chemist describing a new drug (chemical structure, boiling point, etc.)

Modeling Methods

• Often related to meteorology and climatology.
• Engineers use complex mathematical models (e.g., for racing cars or airplanes).
• Models are checked against known data through methods like backcasting and forecasting.

Theoretical Methods

• Examples: Stephen Hawking, Peter Higgs, and Einstein.
• Use mathematics to develop new theories.
• Theories are tested through experimental methods.
• Einstein’s theory of general relativity took 50 years to test.

Experimental Methods

• All claims must eventually pass through experimental methods to be deemed scientific.
• Experiments establish causality by controlling variables.
• Examples of scientific discoveries through experimentation:
  • Microbes causing infectious diseases
  • Concept of a quantum universe
  • Developing technologies like radio, TV, etc.

Importance of Understanding Science

• Knowing how science works is crucial for educated individuals.
• Can prevent or reduce problems if political and business leaders understand science.
• Evidence of human-induced global warming supported by scientific studies.
• Misunderstanding science allows for the spread of pseudo-sciences and frauds.
• Critical analysis of evidence is essential.

Take-Home Message

• Science involves many methods and is a creative process.
• Experimentation is unique to science.

Final Words

• A closing thought from Neil deGrasse Tyson (speech not included in notes).