Quote:
Originally Posted by blueash
Science is not advanced by anecdotes.
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Quote:
Originally Posted by rmd2
Wrong. Science often advances first from anecdotal evidence. Often medical and scientific advances are found after information comes in about something unexpected that is working for a problem. It can be a complete surprise but it works! Afterward it can be put into testing and proof. History abounds with this type of advancement.
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This is a misunderstanding of my meaning. I should have been clearer. Of course observation or serendipity provides a spark toward understanding and proof. Anecdotes provide clues to construct a hypothesis. Then you test that hypothesis to see if the evidence supports or refutes your premise. Only after you do the testing do you have science.
So what I meant by science is not advanced by anecdotes is that science is advanced by testing, retesting, and validation. While it is an anecdote it is just a guess.