Nature of Science And Limits of Science

What is Science? BIO 152/152 “Tool” (ie process, methodology) for investigating the natural world, the physical universe, and the knowledge gained by this process BIO 152/152 “Tool” (ie process, methodology) for investigating the natural world, the physical universe, and the knowledge gained by this process

Definition of Science Science is the study of the natural world that includes observable and measurable phenomena within the universe. (Ohio Academy of Science)

Characteristics of the Methodology Starts with observation – direct or indirect (our senses!) Starts with observation – direct or indirect (our senses!) Defines a question/problem Defines a question/problem Must be testable Must be testable Must be measurable Must be measurable Phenomenon must be repeatable Phenomenon must be repeatable

Question Is the question/problem of: “Do blondes have more fun?” within the realm of science? Is the question/problem of: “Do blondes have more fun?” within the realm of science?

Question: Is religion within the realm of science? Is religion within the realm of science? Historical evidence of religious figures? (existance of Jesus, Mohammed, Buddha, Francis of Assisi, etc?) Historical evidence of religious figures? (existance of Jesus, Mohammed, Buddha, Francis of Assisi, etc?) Religious beliefs? Religious beliefs?

Limits to Science Inherent uncertainty always present: “There is no such thing as proof”. Inherent uncertainty always present: “There is no such thing as proof”.WHY???

Inherent Uncertainty – Why? False hypotheses can yield true predictions! (Both true and false hypothesis can yield true predictions!) Truth “Table” Hypothesis   Prediction True  True True  True False ↑ or  False False ↑ or  False

Inherent Uncertainty – Why? Science starts with observation; however, our senses cannot always be trusted!

Can we Trust our Senses? (Which line is longer: red or blue?)

Can we Trust our Senses? What is this a picture of?

Can we Trust our Senses? This slide is NOT animated! Stare at this image :

Limits of Science 1) Inherent uncertainty always present: “There is no such thing as proof”. 2) Can only investigate natural world  Can not provide answers to questions of value, ultimate reality, ethics, afterlife, etc 3) $ Limited by funding. $ 4) Limited by personal biases of scientist. 5) Limited by cultural biases of given society

A Limit of Science: Cultural Bias A Limit of Science: Cultural Bias Who was Dr. McClintock? Who was Dr. McClintock? Skull study Skull study