Distinguish between description and understanding as goals of science.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Answer is Description and understanding are two different goals of science.

Description in science refers to the process of accurately and objectively documenting the characteristics, behaviors, and properties of natural phenomena. This involves gathering data, making observations, and categorizing and classifying the information in a systematic and organized manner. The goal of description is to provide a comprehensive and detailed account of the natural world, without necessarily seeking to explain or understand the underlying mechanisms or causes of the phenomena being studied.

On the other hand, understanding in science refers to the pursuit of knowledge and insight into the underlying principles, mechanisms, and relationships that govern natural phenomena. This involves formulating hypotheses, conducting experiments, and analyzing data to uncover the fundamental principles and laws that govern the behavior of the natural world. The goal of understanding is to develop theories and models that can explain and predict the behavior of natural phenomena, leading to a deeper comprehension of the underlying mechanisms at work.

In summary, while description focuses on accurately documenting and categorizing natural phenomena, understanding seeks to uncover the underlying principles and mechanisms that govern these phenomena. Both goals are important in science, as they contribute to our overall knowledge and comprehension of the natural world.

Distinguish Between Description and Understanding as Goals of Science