Understanding Science: An overview

d we still have much to learn. Millions of scientists all over the world are working to solve different parts of the puzzle of how the universe works, peering into its nooks and crannies, deploying their microscopes, telescopes, and other tools to unravel its secrets. Scientists are everywhere, unravelling the secrets of the universe. Science is complex and multi-faceted, but the most important characteristics of science are straightforward: Science focuses exclusively on the natural world, and does not deal with supernatural explanations. Science is a way of learning about what is in the natural world, how the natural world works, and how the natural world got to be the way it is. It is not simply a collection of facts; rather it is a path to understanding. Scientists work in many different ways, but all science relies on testing ideas by figuring out what expectations are generated by an idea and making observations to find out whether those expectations hold true. Accepted scientific ideas are reliable because they have been subjected to rigorous testing, but as new evidence is acquired and new perspectives emerge these ideas can be revised. Science is a community endeavor. It relies on a system of checks and balances, which helps ensure that science moves in the direction of greater accuracy and understanding. This system is facilitated by diversity within the scientific community, which offers a broad range of perspectives on scientific ideas. To many, science may seem like an arcane, ivory-towered institution — but that impression is based on a misunderstanding of science. In fact: Science affects your life everyday in all sorts of different ways. Science can be fun and is accessible to everyone. You can apply an understanding of how science works to your everyday life. Anyone can become a scientist — of the amateur or professional variety. Science doesn't just take place in laboratories. You can have fun with and make use of science in everyday life. Where to begin? Here are some places you may want to start your investigation: What is science? Find out what makes science science. How does it work? Probe the nuts and bolts of the process of science. Why is it important? Learn how science affects your life everyday and how you can apply an understanding of the nature of science in your everyday life.

For further details log on website :
http://undsci.berkeley.edu/article/intro_01