Scientific Method in Practice [Paperback] Gauch Jr., Hugh G.

This book is the first synthesis of the practice and the philosophy of the scientific method. It offers scientists a deeper understanding of the underpinnings of the scientific method, thereby leading to more productive research and experimentation. It also provides a greater perspective on the rationality of the scientific approach and its role in society. Topics relevant to a variety of disciplines are treated, and clarifying figures, case studies, and chapter summaries enhance the pedagogy.

Between the covers of this book is the first synthesis of both the practice and the philosophy of the scientific method. It will enable scientists to be better scientists by offering them a deeper understanding of the underpinnings of the scientific method, thus leading to more productive research and experimentation. The book examines "science wars" and science's presuppositions, deductive and inductive logic, probability, statistics, and parsimony, science's powers, its limits, and science education. Topics relevant to a variety of disciplines are treated, and clarifying figures, case studies, and chapter summaries enhance the pedagogy.