Hugh G. GauchCambridge University Press, 9/6/2012EAN 9781107666726, ISBN10: 1107666724Paperback, 306 pages, 22.8 x 15.2 x 1.4 cmLanguage: EnglishThe fundamental principles of the scientific method are essential for enhancing perspective, increasing productivity, and stimulating innovation. These principles include deductive and inductive logic, probability, parsimony and hypothesis testing, as well as science's presuppositions, limitations, ethics and bold claims of rationality and truth. The examples and case studies drawn upon in this book span the physical, biological and social sciences; include applications in agriculture, engineering and medicine; and also explore science's interrelationships with disciplines in the humanities such as philosophy and law. Informed by position papers on science from the American Association for the Advancement of Science, National Academy of Sciences and National Science Foundation, this book aligns with a distinctively mainstream vision of science. It is an ideal resource for anyone undertaking a systematic study of scientific method for the first time, from undergraduates to professionals in both the sciences and the humanities.Foreword James R. MillerPreface1. Introduction2. Four bold claims3. A brief history of truth4. Science's contested rationality5. Science's presuppositions6. Science's powers and limits7. Deductive logic8. Probability9. Inductive logic and statistics10. Parsimony and efficiency11. Case studies12. Ethics and responsibilities13. Science education14. ConclusionsReferencesIndex.
