Five Characteristics of the Scientific Method

Five Characteristics of the Scientific Method
••• LightFieldStudios/iStock/GettyImages

The scientific method is the system used by scientists to explore data, generate and test hypotheses, develop new theories and confirm or reject earlier results. Although the exact methods used in the different sciences vary (for example, physicists and psychologists work in very different ways), they share some fundamental attributes that may be called characteristics of the scientific method.

TL;DR (Too Long; Didn't Read)

Five key descriptors for the scientific method are: empirical, replicable, provisional, objective and systematic.

Empirical Observation

The scientific method is empirical. That is, it relies on direct observation of the world, and disdains hypotheses that run counter to observable fact. This contrasts with methods that rely on pure reason (including that proposed by Plato) and with methods that rely on emotional or other subjective factors.

Replicable Experiments

Scientific experiments are replicable. That is, if another person duplicates the experiment, he or she will get the same results. Scientists are supposed to publish enough of their method so that another person, with appropriate training, could replicate the results. This contrasts with methods that rely on experiences that are unique to a particular individual or a small group of individuals.

Provisional Results

Results obtained through the scientific method are provisional; they are (or ought to be) open to question and debate. If new data arise that contradict a theory, that theory must be modified. For example, the phlogiston theory of fire and combustion was rejected when evidence against it arose.

Objective Approach

The scientific method is objective. It relies on facts and on the world as it is, rather than on beliefs, wishes or desires. Scientists attempt (with varying degrees of success) to remove their biases when making observations.

Systematic Observation

Strictly speaking, the scientific method is systematic; that is, it relies on carefully planned studies rather than on random or haphazard observation. Nevertheless, science can begin from some random observation. Isaac Asimov said that the most exciting phrase to hear in science is not "Eureka!" but "That's funny." After the scientist notices something funny, he or she proceeds to investigate it systematically.

Related Articles

Steps & Procedures for Conducting Scientific Research
Research Methods in Science
Difference Between Proposition & Hypothesis
10 Characteristics of a Science Experiment
How to Eliminate Bias in Qualitative Research
Characteristics of Modern Science
What Are the 8 Steps in Scientific Research?
Differences Between Conceptual Independent Variables...
What Are Main Limitations of Behavioral Theories?
Types of Observation in the Scientific Method
The Differences Between Concepts, Theories & Paradigms
The Importance of Hypothesis Testing
The Definition of an Uncontrolled Variable
5 Components of a Well-Designed Scientific Experiment
What Is the Purpose of Factor Analysis?
Distinguishing Between Descriptive & Causal Studies
How to Write a Summary on a Science Project
What Is the Next Step if an Experiment Fails to Confirm...
Scientists Now Know Why You Sometimes Feel Psychic

Dont Go!

We Have More Great Sciencing Articles!