Scientific Epistemology Essay

Physics 310 -- Readings for Teaching High School Physics
Illinois State University Physics Teacher Education Program
Carl J. Wenning, Program Coordinator
Spring Semester 2005

Requirements:

Scientists claim that science is different from pseudoscience and religion to the extent that it is empirical. That is, science claims, at least to a certain degree, that its knowledge is based upon the observable, verifiable, and repeatable. Any good scientist generally should be able to state the empirical basis for any sort of scientific belief. Knowing how one knows something is the basis of scientific epistemology, and is just as important as what one knows. In this essay project you will describe the nature of scientific epistemology, distinguishing between belief and knowledge.

Science is tentative, and cannot and does not claim to know all things. It cannot be relied upon to make all sorts of judgments. So, in addition to defining the nature of scientific epistemology, the student will note the limitations that are naturally imposed on scientific knowledge. In your paper you should attempt to answer the following questions. Please be certain to enumerate your answers to these questions.

1. What is the difference between knowledge and belief?
2. In what ways are knowledge and belief similar?
3. How do scientists come to know things, rather than merely believe?
4. How is the scientific way of attaining knowledge different from other ways of knowing (e.g., historical).
5. What sort of limitations are naturally imposed on scientific knowledge? Give and explain some examples.
6. How should the empirical nature of science affect one's teaching of science?

In addition, your essay must satisfy the following general criteria:

• Paper is typed double space, using a 12-point Times New Roman font or similar
• 1-inch borders all around
• 3-4 pages in length
• Makes appropriate use of grammar
• Logically presented
• Shows evidence of deep understanding not merely surface learning
• Accurate
• Contains not less than three references
• Turned in on time (25%/day penalty for each school day late)
• Satisfies stated objectives
• Click here to obtain detailed grading rubric which should serve as a guide as you write your paper.

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