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Does the scientific method necessarily always produce reliable and valid knowledge?

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Scientific method is an epistemological system used by the scientists to investigate natural phenomena, developing new knowledge or correcting preceding knowledge (Jennings, 2008:5). It is considered the best objective framework to construct an accurate representation of the world, it include ideas, procedures, rules, techniques and modes which exist in theoretical research, applied research, development and promotion of scientific activities. This essay aim to prove that although the scientific method does not necessarily always produces reliable and valid knowledge, it is stills a most reasonable inference to help human understand natural phenomena. Therefore, at the first, the basic steps of the scientific method will be introduced. …show more content…

Scientists build confidence from a number of successful hypotheses, then to do more research with satisfactory explanation of the observed phenomena.

After understanding the steps of scientific method, it is necessary to discuss its objectivity. Objectivity is the core value of the science and scientific method; it reveals how science is practiced and how scientific knowledge is created (Ziman, 1996:751). To be specific, it means that science should not have biases, emotional factor and commitments. Booth (2004) detailed lists the necessary standard of scientific objectivity. Firstly, the understandability between subjects, science is not private affairs; critical scientific statement must be communicated with each other. Therefore must use some kind of universal language to express. Secondly, science does not depend on the frame of reference. The position, state of consciousness and angle of the observer are not important. Thirdly, the verifiability between subjects, the correctness of the statement can be convinced through appropriate measures. Fourth, the science does not depend on the method. The correctness of statement is not allowed to rely on the method of verification statement. Finally, no agreement, the correctness of statement is not allowed to establish on the unfounded behavior, such as a resolution or promise.

Additionally, the objectivity of scientific method can be expressed by the reliable and valid conclusion which produced by

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