Yes, many fundings do come from certain circles. But, there is also peer-review. Scientists release their data and methods and have other scientists check them out. If they have an agenda, it will be quickly found out and their tests will be discredited.
Science, is the study of reality as dictated by the strict and critical framework of the scientific method. The scientific method being composed of these steps: "Observation, Description, Prediction, Control, Falsifiability, Causal Explanation".
Science basically refers to a system of acquiring knowledge of concepts not yet verified. It uses hypothetics, theory, experimentation, variable, controls and observation to describe and explain natural phenomena of both our earthly environment or the expanded universe beyond.
And with every generation before us and behind us; scientific knowledge, research and study continually builds upon itself, striving to make sense of a highly complex, intricate world and universe that will continue to be a vast maze of yet unanswered questions for years and centuries to come. As well, age-old beliefs or new scientific theories may have to be restructured, recatagorized, shifted or extended, as we delve deeper and deeper into the heart of the aquarian age.
In short, science and its selective branches, makes our lives and existence a better, safer, healther and much more knowledgeable world to live in. As well, I predict, both the worlds of science, art and entertainment will slowly blend into one another more than ever before; as the world becomes much more sophisticated, adventurous, and experimentive.
Science is not "another form of assumptions" because we actually test and require evidence to accept knowledge discovered by the Scientific Method. That is why empirical evidence for hypothesis and theories are so necessary, to actually see effects that are predicted rather than relying on assumptions. It doesn't just assume something is true, it actively tests to make sure it actually is true.
As for dogma, I hardly see how that is relevant to the question of "What Science is?"
Definitive answer, I suppose "Science is the Scientific Method in action" is about as barebones as we can get, Capgirlinlustwithleo" Of course, I'm open to be proven wrong.
Aside from complete cosmic collapse or decay; when you think of it, everything in the Universe has 'already' bascially happened at least one time, or over and over again. Questions have already been answered. A question, hypothesis or theory only exists because, as human beings, we 'as yet' don't know or understand all plausible fundamental laws or principles, if that is even possible..The Universe simply 'exists' with us in it, it has no bearing on what we do, think or believe. Will we ever find all the answers? Can we, even with our highly curious, yet relatively limited human perspective? And what are the most important questions to be answered, who decides? I believe when one theory or discovery is answered, it can create so many more. But then again, that's the nature of science. We have learned a lot; with the vast talent and great scientific minds of our times; there definately is going to be some exciting discoveries ahead!!
A question I had pondered awhile back on the meta board was; 'IS' our observed universe all that exists, or is it just one "universe" among many, a mere part of a much bigger picture, in which we define or misinterpret local conditions as 'fundamental laws??' So many as yet unanswered questions. I guess only time will tell..
"Mystic I read a book that addressed that very question 2 months ago, although it was not all science based, I'd have to look it up though, can't remember the title. But it had a great theory for that very question you raised. If you expand it to lots of things it would really cause people to change the way they view things."
wow, primegen, would love to know the name of that book, if you ever happen across it again! The theory behind what we think we know by our own perspectives, and what could actually be out there..! I haven't really heard an explanation on this theory, myself as yet.. so very interesting, and certainly eye-opening, as you said..
So, what do you think Science is?