Scientific research is the application of the scientific method. It is seldom pursued
simply in the interest of satisfying curiosity or developing an understanding of the
way things work (ruling out statement 1).
Research is funded by organizations that have some motive, usually profit (statement
2, for old paradigm business; statement 3 for new paradigm green businesses
incorporating industrial ecology). In other words, scientific research is
value-driven.
Responsible research is then conducted in an objective, relatively value-free
environment. However, nuclear physics has proven that the mere existence of an
observer changes the outcome of the research. Interpretation of the results also
provides opportunities for values to enter in. Total objectivity being therefore
beyond reach, we always need to ask who did the research and in who's interest were
they acting?
>>> jeff owens <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> 1/8/2001 11:30:07 AM >>>
Ideas and debates related to science continue
to appear in magazines. Here are some comments
triggered by the latest issue of SUN magazine.
Which of these statements are true:
1. Science is about understanding how the universe
works. Or more simply it is about satisfying
curiosity.
2. The primary purpose of science has been to
control and dominate the natural world.
3. The primary purpose of science is to enable
humans to coexist peacefully and develop
sustainable relationship with earth.
In school I was taught #1 and that science is a method.
Very little time was spent talking about how we should
use science. What has your experience been?
Here is a quote from SUN about happiness.
Happiness is always a byproduct. It is probably
a matter of temperament, and for anything I know it
may be glandular. But it is not something that can
be demanded from life, and if you are not happy, you
had better stop worrying about it and see what
treasures you can pluck from your own brand of
unhappiness. -- Robertson Davies
jeff
