Question

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of science? a. It is cumulative. b. It is a search for truth. c. It is an attitude. d. It requires intellectual honesty.

Short answer

Option b is NOT a characteristic of science.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Question

The question asks to identify which option does not describe a characteristic of science from the given options a, b, c, and d. We need to examine each choice to determine whether it is typically associated with the nature of scientific inquiry.

Evaluating Option a

Science is cumulative, meaning that it builds upon previous knowledge and discoveries. It involves the collection and combination of previous findings to enhance the understanding of a subject.

Examining Option b

Science is not merely a search for truth in the philosophical sense. While it aims to understand the natural world, it does so by understanding explanations that can be tested and falsified. Pure "truth," such as it might be understood in a philosophical context, is not always within the realm of science.

Considering Option c

Science is indeed an attitude. It involves a mindset of curiosity and a willingness to challenge accepted ideas and hypotheses objectively through experimentation and observation.

Checking Option d

Science requires intellectual honesty, which means accurately reporting findings, acknowledging limitations, and not allowing personal biases to influence results. Intellectual honesty is a crucial principle in scientific endeavors.

Identifying the Correct Answer

Having analyzed each option, we identified Option b ('It is a search for truth') as not being a typical characteristic of science. Science seeks to create models and explanations based on empirical data that can be tested, rather than an absolute search for truth which may not be testable.

Key concepts

Scientific Inquiry

Scientific inquiry is the process through which science seeks to understand the natural world. This method involves observation, experimentation, and forming hypotheses. It is guided by some key principles:

• Empirical Evidence: Scientists rely on measurable and observable data to support their theories.
• Testability: Hypotheses must be testable so that predictions can be verified or refuted.
• Reproducibility: Findings should produce the same results under similar conditions when tested by different researchers.

Scientific inquiry is dynamic. This means it can adapt as new evidence or techniques become available. There is always a cycle of questioning, investigating, and refining in science. This continuous cycle is crucial for deepening our understanding and solving complex problems in the world.

Intellectual Honesty

Intellectual honesty is a foundational ethos in the practice of science. It is essential for maintaining the credibility and reliability of scientific research. Intellectual honesty involves several critical practices:

• Truthfulness: Reporting findings and results accurately and without fabrication.
• Acknowledgment: Recognizing the limitations of one's research and data.
• Objectivity: Ensuring personal biases do not interfere with data interpretation or outcomes.

This commitment ensures that science remains credible and valuable as a source of knowledge. Intellectual honesty prevents manipulation of results for personal or financial gains, thereby fostering trust in scientific findings and progress. It is the responsibility of every scientist to uphold these values to preserve the integrity of scientific endeavors.

Cumulative Knowledge

Cumulative knowledge refers to the way in which scientific understanding builds upon previous discoveries. This characteristic allows science to evolve and expand continuously. Here are key elements:

• Building Blocks: New discoveries often rely on the foundation laid by earlier research.
• Collaboration: Scientists across different fields can combine their findings to form a more comprehensive understanding.
• Adaptation: Science can refine theories based on new data or technologies.

As knowledge accumulates, it fosters innovation and breakthroughs. Historical examples, like the discovery of DNA structure, show how cumulative knowledge in chemistry and biology led to profound advancements in genetics. Such a process demonstrates the power of science to continually grow and improve over time.