The scientific method guides the way researchers tackle the questions they want and need to answer. Even though the same guidelines are used, each individual has their own perspective on what happened. In scientific research, it is important to provide details on what and how information is being observed or recorded. Another researcher should be able to replicate/repeat the same study and get similar results.
Think about this information and the information provided in this week’s readings and the Scientific Method Tutorial. Consider the steps taken to accomplish the use of the Scientific Method. Researchers are aiming to discover “truth” as they conduct their work. However, researchers are human and fall prey to bias.
“Truth” and bias … consider how difficult these can be to deal with in everyday life — (#1) can you provide an example?
Now think again about scientific research — observation of details in scientific research is imperative. (#2) But can they be made without bias?
There is a common phrase in our society that relies upon the ideals of “TRUTH”. Witnesses in a court of law are asked to “swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.”
(#3) What are some of the problems inherent in the question?
(#4) Do you see the relationship between truth, bias, everyday life, and science?
Post your examples, opinions, and thoughts regarding the issue of truth and bias in science as well as in court.
