The scientific method is an empirical method of acquiring knowledge that has characterized the development of science since at least the 17th century. It involves careful observation, applying rigorous skepticism about what is observed, given that cognitive assumptions can distort how one interprets the observation.
Other than religions or other dogmatic beliefs that claim ultimate authority that can’t be questioned, science lives from the expectation that one has never got the full answer, is partially or completely wrong – and is always ready to change ones mind upon presentation of better facts, evidence and arguments.
It involves formulating hypotheses, via induction, based on observations; experimental and measurement-based testing of deductions drawn from the hypotheses; and refinement (or elimination) of the hypotheses based on the experimental findings. These are principles of the scientific method, as distinguished from a definitive series of steps applicable to all scientific enterprises.
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