Scientific Methodology and the Nature of Truth

Scientific Classifications and Research Methods

Types of science and methods used to develop induction allow the materials chosen for the sensory experience, using concepts and categories previously constructed intersubjectively (theoretical framework) to build an empirical reality. The propositions that refer to ideal objects whose conclusions are derived as a matter of necessity (deduction) from axioms and theorems are formal sciences. The natural sciences deal with phenomena of nature, while the social sciences focus on proposals regarding social interaction and human behavior. There are two primary types of methods: the hypothetico-deductive and the hermeneutic.

The Hypothetico-Deductive Method

The hypothetico-deductive method combines sensory experience and deduction. The steps are:

• It starts from the observation and evaluation of phenomena.
• Introducing assumptions or ideas (hypotheses).
• There is a test and demonstration phase of the degree to which assumptions are based; when the expected consequences are not met, the hypothesis is rejected and a new formulation is created.
• We review such ideas or assumptions.
• When satisfied, the hypothesis is confirmed.
• Proposes new observations and evaluations.

The Hermeneutic Method

The hermeneutic method can make a more analytical description to find meaning. Through it, we understand the reality in which we live. In any case, it is impossible to reach an absolute distance (the myth of the neutrality of science). In its conclusions, it makes explicit the problems it has faced to understand that reality. It seeks complementarity of quantitative and qualitative techniques to perform description, interpretation, and evaluation.

Conceptions of Truth in Scientific Knowledge

The truth in natural science knowledge is animistic. It is based on the belief that things have a soul that gives them their character. Through knowledge and replies to elaborate metaphysical entities, essences, or principles that are beyond the temporal experience, scientific knowledge requires us to show the way (method). This truth will be supported on some criteria, such as:

• Evidence of immediate experience.
• The tradition or concept of authority.
• The exchange of views and reasons that the community develops, understands, and accepts.

Scientific knowledge aims at the validity (truth) of scientific propositions or sentences. There are different conceptions of truth:

• Truth as correspondence: Correspondence of one event (a descriptive map of the reality that we live in).
• Truth as coherence: Relation between propositions; our conclusion would still be logically correct.
• Truth as functionality: If it works, it is considered true.
• Truth as belief: The truth of things and our life comes from a transcendent reality.
• Truth as humanly useful: It allows human beings and nature to develop and live. Praxis is useful to maintain and develop the potential of life, human and nonhuman, and can assert its true character.