Differences Between Science and Pseudoscience
1. Methodology
Science: Relies on the scientific method, which involves systematic observation, hypothesis formulation, experimentation, analysis, and peer review. It ensures repeatability and reduces bias.
Pseudoscience: Does not adhere to the scientific method. It often relies on anecdotal evidence and lacks systematic approaches.
2. Evidence and Testing
Science: Relies on empirical evidence that is observable, measurable, and can be replicated. Scientific claims can be tested and potentially disproven.
Pseudoscience: Often relies on anecdotal evidence or selective data. It avoids tests that could disprove its claims.
3. Openness to Revision
Science: Is self-correcting. New evidence can lead to modification or rejection of previously held ideas.
Pseudoscience: Lacks self-correction and resists change, even when faced with contradicting evidence.
4. Peer Review and Transparency
Science: Involves peer review to critically evaluate research. It is transparent about methods and data.
Pseudoscience: Often lacks peer review and presents non-expert endorsements as evidence.
5. Falsifiability and Predictive Power
Science: Requires that hypotheses be falsifiable. It provides predictive power that can be tested.
Pseudoscience: Lacks falsifiability. Claims are often framed to be impossible to disprove.
6. Reproducibility
Science: Emphasizes reproducibility, where experiments can yield similar results under the same conditions.
Pseudoscience: Often fails to provide reproducible results. Claims are usually based on isolated cases or anecdotes.
7. Use of Terminology
Science: Uses precise and clearly defined terminology.
Pseudoscience: Often uses ambiguous or misleading terminology to appear scientific.
8. Attitude Toward Criticism
Science: Welcomes critical examination and debate.
Pseudoscience: Is often defensive against criticism and dismisses critics.
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