Because of the Human Element in Science, Some Scholars Believe

question 11

Essay

Because of the human element in science, some scholars believe that it is impossible to detect and eliminate sources of bias in scientific inquiry. Present a rebuttal to this criticism. Be sure to point out how biases and errors often are identifiable and correctable because the nature of scientific inquiry enables its own critique.

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Definitions:

Evolutionary Adaptation

The process through which species undergo changes over time due to genetic variation and natural selection, helping organisms to survive and reproduce in their environments.

Stimulus Discrimination

The learned ability to distinguish between similar stimuli and respond differently based on their associative properties with reinforcement or punishment.

Secondary Reinforcer

Indicates any stimulus that has become reinforcing through its association with a primary reinforcer, often used in behavioral conditioning.

Probability

A measure of the likelihood that a particular event will occur, often expressed as a number between 0 and 1.