Lecture Summary of Scientific Methods, Theories and Models

At this class session, we continued to look at “Inductive and Deductive reasoning”, only this time, with a surprising ideology. This ideology being that the reasoning of Induction, proposed by the ancient philosopher “Plato” (429-347 BC). The other being that the reasoning of Deduction, proposed by ancient philosopher “Aristotle” (384-322 BC). Which brings me back to my point, that pre-historic beliefs has begun are now alignment with the present-day beliefs. The definition of “Science” could not even be fathomed, before these pioneers gave it meaning. I learnt that both methodologies of observation (Qualitative and Quantitative) can be used, effectively to arrive at certain conclusions and or results. Simply because with the “Qualitative Observation”, a scientist can make assumptions based on his or her own observation about an object and or theory. For example: If I was to decide if a loaf of bread is still edible or not. I could check whether it has started to grow mold or not. As the mold would show that the effect of eating the moldy said loaf of bread can result in “Food poisoning”. It is still unclear to me what the terminology of “Empirical” in science refers to. From what I’ve gathered thus far, I think the definition is the act of a person applying prior self and attained knowledge.

To knowledge absorbed whilst conducting specific experimentations, observations and models. However, to be able to fully comprehend that definition, I would use my dictionary as a resource. As the meaning would be simple and straight to the point. On the other hand, the “Quantitative Observation” requires a scientist to make assume, with the aid of a scientific tool and or instrument. For example: if I was running a fever, I can use a “thermometer”, to find out my current body temperature level and then find solutions to return it to normal. “No amount of experimentation can ever prove me right; a single experiment can prove me wrong”. - Albert Einstein

It is my belief that this quote loaned its’ definition to that of “William Harvey” (one of the world’s greatest scientist). Harvey was responsible for the discovery of the blood circulatory system and its functions, as he did research and experiments to prove his theory as a law. He would have explained in a detailed account each aspect of said blood circulatory system and its functions. For example: the blood vessels, veins, valves, the heart and capillaries. Evidently, if it was not for Harvey’s keen eye for experimentation, the human population may not have been aware that the heart has four chambers, consisting of the right and left atrium as well as, the right and left ventricle. Not to mention the four valves of said heart; Tricuspid valve, Mitral valve, Aortic valve and lastly the pulmonic valve.

Each part of the circulatory system has a very important function and its discovery has been very beneficial to science and medicine in the 21st century. The issue of the human circulatory system and how it works has heavily peaked my interest and has made me want to learn more about said system. With that said, I am very grateful to profound philosophers such as: Harvey, who would have explored and critiqued the phenomenal elements and its relations to the universe present-day. I before was mistaken when I thought that “Google” had all the answers to everything. However, I have come to recognize that the safer and smarter technique, would be that of researching materials and sourcing them from; books, articles, journals, archives, etc.