Description of scientific process:
- Make observation/ask why or how it happens.
- Suggest answer, form theory, sometimes form model.
- Make prediction/hypothesis.
- Test hypothesis.
Peer review process:
- Write report.
- Report sent to peers. Published if they deem conclusion reasonable.
- Not guaranteed to be correct, needs to be replicated.
When is a theory accepted?
When the evidence supports it.
How do scientists test one another’s theories?
- Repeat the experiment.
2. Use theory for new predictions, test with new experiments.
Advantages of lab experiments:
Controlled environment, control other variables. Can draw meaningful conclusions.
Why is scientific evidence important to society?
Leads to important discoveries to benefit humans. Used to make decisions.
How can economic factors influence decisions about how science is used?
It’s expensive to implement changes, such as to the NHS.
Drug companies won’t develop ideas that don’t make them money.
How can social factors influence how science is used?
Decisions affect lives. Suggestions to ban smoking and drinking to stop health problems prevent free will.
How can environmental factors influence how science is used?
Unexplored regions may provide drug resources, but exploiting the region can lead to deforestation and reduced biodiversity.
