Scientific Method in Practice

As the gateway to scientific thinking, an understanding of the scientific method is essential for success and productivity in science. This book is the first synthesis of the practice and the philosophy of the scientific method. It will enable scientists to be better scientists by offering them a deeper understanding of the underpinnings of the scientific method, thereby leading to more productive research and experimentation. It will also give scientists a more accurate perspective on the rationality of the scientific approach and its role in society. Beginning with a discussion of today’s ‘science wars’ and science’s presuppositions, the book then explores deductive and inductive logic, probability, statistics, and parsimony, and concludes with an examination of science’s powers and limits, and a look at science education. Topics relevant to a variety of disciplines are treated, and clarifying figures, case studies, and chapter summaries enhance the pedagogy. This adeptly executed, comprehensive, yet pragmatic work yields a new synergy suitable for scientists and instructors, and graduate students and advanced undergraduates.

• Vigorously and explicitly aligned with the AAAS’s vision of science as a liberal art, i.e., in its historical and philosophical context • Illustrated with clarifying diagrams, historical photographs, and entertaining cartoons • Written by a seasoned scientist and author

Foreword; Preface; 1. Introduction; 2. Science in perspective; 3. Science wars; 4. Science’s presuppositions; 5. Deductive logic; 6. Probability; 7. Inductive logic and statistics; 8. Parsimony and efficiency; 9. Case studies; 10. Science’s powers and limits; 11. Science education; 12. Conclusions; References.

‘In encouraging scientists to examine the basic beliefs and attitudes they share, Gauch provides an enriching journey into a humanities-rich version of science. And because it is a book written by a scientist for scientists, its practical use improves productivity while enriching the experience of discovery.’

– Marye Anne Fox, Chancellor of the University of California, former President of Sigma Xi (2001 – 2002), and Chair of the National Research Council Committee on Undergraduate Science Education

‘Written by a scientist for scientists, this is an impressive and comprehensive treatment of the principles of scientific method. Hugh Gauch provides an important, and well-informed, contribution to our contemporary understanding of the practice of science.’

– Roger Trigg, Professor of Philosophy at the University of Warwick and Chair of the British Philosophical Association