Defining Science
What is science? More than simply a body of knowledge or
collection of facts, science is a means of inquiry. But what distinguishes
scientific inquiry from other ways we humans gain understanding of ourselves
and the universe? Listen in as seven scientists, philosophers, and educators
reflect on the essence of science, and why evolution qualifies while
intelligent design does not. Play all or choose individual clips below.
Barbara Forrest
Professor of Philosophy Southeastern Louisiana University
"When creationists try to dismiss evolution as
'only a theory,' they are misusing the word theory."
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"Only a Theory"
Running time 2:19
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Nick Matzke
Public Information Project Director National Center for Science Education
"A conservative judge isn't going to just redefine science."
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Avoiding the Supernatural
Running time 1:41
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Ken Miller
Biologist Brown University
"What science isn't very good at is answering
questions [on] the meaning and purpose of things."
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Science and Religion
Running time 2:29
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On Isaac Newton
Running time 1:34
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Kevin Padian
Paleontologist UC Berkeley
"I don't know where people get the idea that
evolution is a theory in crisis."
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A Solid Theory
Running time 1:18
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Robert T. Pennock
Philosopher and Evolutionary Scientist Michigan State University
"You can't have gaps that you fill in by
appeal to miracles."
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Natural Explanations
Running time 1:33
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Science Is Not Dogmatic
Running time 2:02
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Eugenie Scott
Executive Director National Center for Science Education
"If you teach intelligent design as a science, you
are confusing students about the nature of science."
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Science Tests Its Claims
Running time 1:12
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Neil Shubin
Paleontologist University of Chicago and the Field Museum
"Not every idea, no matter how beautiful, qualifies
as science."
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The Power of Science
Running time 1:23
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Text version of audio clips
Download audio clips
Barbara Forrest
Nick Matzke
Ken Miller 1
Ken Miller 2
Kevin Padian
Robert T. Pennock 1
Robert T. Pennock 2
Eugenie Scott
Neil Shubin
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Created October 2007
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