create an explanation that explains all the past observations AND that also predicts new ones
make a model---abstraction that is a simplified view of reality
theories/models make testable predictions. Testable predictions is what distinguishes
scientific explanations from other types of explanations.
Science use of the word "theory" is different from common everyday use
of "theory" which is just a hunch, guess, belief. Science theory = a logical,
systematic set of principles or explanation that has been verified, and
has stood up against attempts to prove it false. Examples: Theory of Gravity,
Atomic Theory (Quantum Mechanics Theory), Theory of Evolution and for astronomy:
Theory of General Relativity, Big Bang Theory.
3. Observe + experiment: test the prediction (test the theory)
4. Revise, expand, or reject the theory/model
experiments are the sole judge of scientific truth.
we assume
that there are fundamental rules that natures follows.
we assume that there is only
one real way that nature is and that nature operates. A correct
understanding of that one real way is what I'll call ``scientific truth''.
We limit ourselves to purely natural explanations---that everything in nature
can be described by using just matter, energy, and the interaction
between the two. Self-imposed limitation!
"Most scientists appreciate that we do not yet understand everything there
is to know about the natural world. But if a natural cause
for something is not known, the scientific approach would be to say, `I don't
know, yet,'
and keep looking." (courtesy of Eugene C Scott)
Conflict between science and religion arises when people confuse "absence
of evidence" with "evidence of
absence". Science canNOT prove nor disprove the existence of God. (See science - religion note if you want more on this topic)
5. Communicate results in clear, logical fashion + have results validated
by others via "peer review".
"Science is a way of trying not to fool yourself. The first principle is that you must not fool yourself, and you are the easiest person to fool." (Feynman, Galileo Symposium 1964)
Astronomy allows us to test our guesses of the rules natures uses
Lecture slides (select the links to view the slides)