Introduction
According to Lau and Chan’s work, the scientific method is also referred to as the “hypothetical-deductive approach,” which is used to evaluate the veracity of theories or hypotheses. But in science, there are other ways to demonstrate theories or hypotheses. Critical thinking is using and judging reasoning to evaluate claims, presumptions, and arguments in real-world contexts (Lau & Chan, 2017). This procedure aims to assist us in developing sound beliefs, where sound indicates that our beliefs are truthful, helpful, or logical, among other criteria. Even though critical thinking employs some formal techniques, many individuals mistakenly believe it is a form of informal reasoning.
Scientific Process Science is concerned with the logical justification, prognostication, and management of empirical phenomena. “Scientific reasoning” refers to the logical principles used to pursue this goal. They cover subjects like conducting experiments, designing experiments, and interpreting data (Lau & Chan, 2021).
Institutional research and all forms of scientific investigation depend on scientific thinking. Non-scientists are not forced to use some concepts daily, while scientists do (for instance, quantum physics). Many logical concepts, such as the rules for determining causes, are valuable in everyday life. Even though not everyone is a scientist, they must apply sound judgment to understand, foresee, and manage life events. We must gather information to decide the best practical strategy for attaining our goals, whether we want to progress in our professions, save money, or enhance our health. All of these circumstances need sound scientific reasoning abilities.
Assumptions
Testing theories or hypotheses requires the use of the HD-hypothetical-deductive technique. The phrase “scientific method” is another name for it. This does n seem appropriate because science can’t reasonably use just one method (Lau & Chan, 2021). However, the HD method is important since it is one of the most fundamental methods utilized in numerous scientific fields, including physics, biochemistry, and economics. There are four steps in applying this approach (Lau & Chan, 2017). The first step is to identify the hypothesis to be tested, and the second is to produce predictions based on the selected hypothesis. Following the creation of forecasts, experiments are used to determine whether the predictions are accurate. The hypothesis is either verified or disproven based on whether the predictions were accurate.
According to Lau & Chan (2021), a scientific hypothesis must be testable. If a theory cannot be tested, we cannot discover evidence to prove it is likely. In that case, it cannot be regarded as scientific information. Consider the possibility that a house contains some ghosts. These ghosts are undetectable, and neither directly nor indirectly can one engage with them (Lau & Chan, 2020). One must rule out testing in order to define this hypothesis. This cannot be regarded as a scientific theory because we will never know if the alleged ghosts exist. The possibility that a theory is accurate often rises with each confirmed forecast. A hypothesis will frequently result in a forecast when given additional assumptions. In such circumstances, the theory may still be true even if a forecast is wrong.
Ways to Improve Critical Reasoning
Regardless of proof or statistics to the contrary, people in real life conclude or make assumptions about a significant topic. I have also made a very important assumption. I once experienced symptoms and indicators similar to the flu. The symptoms included a sore throat, a runny or stuffy nose, congestion, coughing, fever, a mild headache, body aches, and an uneasy sensation. Initially clear, the nasal discharge thickened and changed color to a greenish or yellowish hue as it progressed. Since the symptoms resembled those of COVID-19, I was concerned. I also feared getting a checkup so I wouldn’t have to remain in quarantine to stop the coronavirus from spreading.
My relatives, who were equally concerned, suggested that I get tested. Instead of taking the suggestion, I went to a pharmacy and bought several over-the-counter cold remedies. I also purchased some analgesics. But after three days, the symptoms were still present, and I needed to visit a doctor because I was worried about dying. After all, coronavirus sickness was killing so many people over the world. I was tested after I visited the doctor, and the results showed that I was coronavirus-free. I was diagnosed with a common cold and was given the right medication to stop the symptoms. In this instance, I had expected a cold, but out of anxiety and other external factors, I believed I had COVID-19, which tests later disproved. I assumed I had a coronavirus because it resembles a typical cold (WHO, 2021). They impact the respiratory system. Body aches and headaches are both related. I felt ill and had a runny and stuffy nose.
Clear, logical, and introspective critical thinking aims to determine what to believe or do. Before deciding on a topic, it entails asking plenty of questions. Instead of just remembering information or blindly believing everything you hear or read, it requires challenging presumptions and exercising skepticism (Lau & Chan, 2020). So, to avoid utilizing over-the-counter medications, which may have adverse effects, I will need to see a doctor as soon as possible if I find myself in a similar scenario in the future. Additionally, this would help me save money because I tossed away the over-the-counter medications I had bought when the doctor recommended alternative medications for my illness.
Peer-Reviewed Example
Peer review is intended to aid in two key areas. For instance, a battery-operated electrical device might not turn on. The first step would be to think about the possibility that the batteries are possibly worn out, depleted, or dead. The next stage would be to verify or refute that notion. The procedure would entail swapping out the batteries for fresh ones. This experiment can be used to put the prediction to the test.
The idea is disproved when the electronics will not turn on even after the batteries have been changed. However, if it functions with fresh batteries, the theory is supported. As a result, if the forecast is off, a new hypothesis can be created and tested. For instance, one would assume that the item is damaged. Therefore, not just institutional research but all forms of scientific investigation depend on scientific thinking. It assists us in having precise, thoughtful, and reasonable thoughts that guide our decision-making.
Developing scientific ideas that adequately and logically explain empirical laws requires applying the scientific process. In a typical application of the scientific method, a researcher formulates a hypothesis, tests it in various ways, and then modifies it in light of their findings (Lau & Chan, 2021). The revised hypothesis is then put to the test once more, amended again, and tested once more until it agrees with what has been observed and discovered through testing. This is how hypotheses help scientists learn more about the world. Researcher develop theories from this information and the numerous scientific experiments they have conducted.
References
Lau, J., & Chan, J. (2017). Scientific methodology: Tutorials 1-9. Web.
Lau, J., & Chan, J. (2020). [C] Critical thinking. Philosophy. Web.
Lau, J., & Chan, J. (2021). [S] Scientific methodology. Philosophy. Web.
WHO. (2021). Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): Similarities and differences with influenza. Web.