What is science?

Science as the acquisition of reliable but not infalible knowledge of the real world, including explanations of the phenomena.

The realm of science includes anything observable in the universe.

Science gathers, processes, classifies, analyzes, and stores information on anything and everything observable in the universe. For something to be a subject of scientific inquiry it must be measurable in one way or another.

Basic and applied research

Pseudosciences:

creation science
astrology

natural versus supernatural

Scientific method

Observation of phenomena

Identify specifics of what is to be anaylzed and explained

Formulation of hypotheses often related to broader theoretical understanding and/or
empirical knowledge. The hypotheses operate to explain how or why the phenomenon acts as it does.

Gathering of data designed to test the hypotheses for accuracy. Often in the form of "if-then" statements: If X is true, then Y must also be true. If X changes, then Y should change also.

Data on X and Y are gathered. Methods of observation and data collection must
be duplicable by others using the same methods. Importance of objectivity.

Acceptance or rejection or modification of hypotheses. Hypotheses are connected logically to theories. Evidence is used to test hypothses and theories.

Theories are constantly subjected to empirical testing. Is the preponderance of evidence consistent with the theory? Constant revision of scientific theories.

Is scientific knowledge the greatest of human achievements?

Are Americans anti-science? If yes, why?

Should Rollins teach as a science class a course that essentially denies all of modern science?