Science: Understanding the Natural World

Overview of Science

• Science is a body of knowledge about the natural world.
• Includes various fields: Earth, space, life, energy, etc.

Doing Science

• Science is not just knowledge, it's an active process.
• Starts with observations and questions about the natural world.
• Relies on evidence that can be tested and verified.

Predictability and Consistency

• The world is predictable and consistent.
• Example: Weather forecasting has improved over time due to advancements in scientific tools (e.g., radars, computer software).

Tentative Nature of Scientific Knowledge

• Scientific knowledge is always tentative and uncertain.
• Weather forecasts illustrate this uncertainty with percentages (e.g., 40% chance of rain).

Limitations of Science

• 100% certainty is uncommon in both science and life.
• Even future forecasts (e.g., 2100) will not be infallible.

Role of Science in Decision Making

• Science informs decisions about the natural world.
• It's just one piece of the puzzle; ultimately, we decide how to utilize scientific findings.

Collaboration in Science

• Science is a social endeavor requiring teamwork, scrutiny, collaboration, and communication.

Boundaries of Science

• Science has limits; it can only address what can be observed, measured, and tested.
• Cannot provide answers to questions like the meaning of life or the existence of the supernatural.

Conclusion

• Science is a valuable way of knowing, but it is not the only way.