"Doing Science" 

(or, How to have a learned debate)

In this lesson, we wish to ask:

  • What are the criteria for solid reasoning?
  • Can science be mistaken or misapplied?  How can you tell?
  • How do we apply science to environmental or societal problems?

Introduction

In this lecture we will present some key ideas related to "doing science".  These ideas include an assessment of the criteria for solid reasoning, and a guideline for applying science to a variety of problems that we face in our world.  After discussing these basic elements of how science is done, we will have an in-class discussion of various examples that illustrate the issues.  In part this discussion will supplement and extend lectures that we have already had in class, and especially the lecture on "Feedback mechanisms and human response" (in other words, please review that lecture).

The Criteria of Solid Reasoning

1.  Clarity

2.  Accuracy

3.  Precision

     "Information"  and "Scientific"

4.  Relevance

5.  Logic

      "A series of statements that are mutually reinforcing, not contradictory"

6.  Breadth and Depth

  •  Complexities
  •  Other points of view
  •  Realistic solutions

All of these criteria, taken together, constitute what we consider to be "evidence" for a scientific argument.  Note that these criteria are by no means limited to scientific arguments.

Applying Science to Problems

There are several keys to applying science to help inform the decision making process about various societal problems.  These keys are summarized below:

1.  Evidence

  • Clarity
  • Accuracy
  • Precision
  • Relevance
  • Logic

2.  Assumptions

  • Accepted as true without proof

3.  Point of View

  • Breadth
  • Depth

4.  Purpose

  • What is the interplay between FACTS and VALUES?

This lecture will explore the above topics in a class discussion with the professors.  At present there is no self test or review.  It is suggested that you come to class if possible, or that you arrange to talk with friends who were in class if you must be absent.  

Additional information on the "uncertainties" involved in climate change predictions can be viewed by clicking here