Re: Definition of science

curiousdannii@xxxxxxxxx wrote:


I agree the creation and refinement of theories is essential, that
comes under the testing of my definition.

Then you definition is defective. Experiment and observation are used to test theories. Experiment and observation are also used to find out things. Thus experiment has to aspects: critical and exploratory.

Without hypothetical causes and models there is no science, only empirical rules of thumb and heuristics which is the early starting phase of a more mature complete science. The historical starting point of science was observing regularities. The later stage consisted of explaining the regularities observed. All human beings with normal mental capacities do the first, i.e. observe regulaties. We all hypothesize causes or at least express expectations of output. Doing it in a sophisticated fashion and assuming events and processes not immediately observable by the unaided senses belongs to the later development of science, and not everyone does it. Little babies instinctively experiment and formulate hypothesis. An infant dropping stuff deliberately from his high-chair is taking the earliest steps in observing and understanding gravitation.

Bob Kolker

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