Fundamental Concepts in Scientific Methodology

Below are definitions for key terms related to scientific study:

• Inductive Model: A method based on the observation of facts and generalizations that compares and supports a law or theory.
• Nature: The set of realities that make up the entire universe, excluding what is artificially produced by humans.
• Postulate: An unprovable proposition whose truth is accepted provisionally as a starting point needed to study a problem, when an absolutely true starting point cannot be found.
• Principle: The starting point, cause, or origin from where something should proceed.
• Principle of Causality: In the universe, there is a necessary chain linking phenomena. Thus, if one knows the causes, one knows the effects.
• Principle of Conservation: Despite the changes observed in nature, there is something permanent that allows for the regular behavior of phenomena.
• Refutation: An argument whose purpose is to destroy opposing reasons or arguments.
• Regularity: The fact that something happens regularly without major changes in areas of equal time.
• System: An integrated set of interconnected theories.
• Scientific System: A set of integrated theories.
• Technique: A procedure or set of rules aimed at achieving a particular result.
• Theory: A collection of confirmed and interrelated observations, laws, and explanations concerning a specific area of reality.
• Consistent Theory: A scientific theory that meets several conditions according to its laws:
  • Order and simplicity of procedure based on few variables.
  • Ability to deduce other laws.
• Universe: The totality of what exists; that outside of which there is nothing.
• Scientific Paradigm: A model of the scientific worldview that predominates in each historical period.

Objectives and Basic Functions of Science

1. Explain the Facts:
   • Analyze and interpret the observable facts and phenomena of various aspects of reality, as science dictates.
   • Question the study by examining how facts relate to each other, seeking regularities and constants that allow for the formulation of laws.
2. Predict Possibilities:
   • Determine what could explain a particular phenomenon happening under certain conditions.
3. Master Nature:
   • Gain knowledge possible to monitor natural phenomena in order to achieve benefit.
   • Develop technological advances to capitalize on new scientific knowledge and improve people's living standards.

Characteristics of Scientific Knowledge

• It is a rational way of knowing.
• Its results are demonstrable.
• It is systematic and rigorous.
• It seeks to be objective.
• It is intended to be universal knowledge.