Chapter 1 Lecture Notes

Front 1

Why do we do research?

Back 1

In order to resolve uncertainty

- Not always all uncertainty but the more the better
- as long as there's no catastrophic error

Front 2

How do we "bullet-proof" our research and where can it go wrong?

Back 2

Making contingency plans before things go wrong

During sampling, procedural issues and non-linearities (earthquakes)

Front 3

What revolutionary hypothesis did Ignac Semmelweis come up with?

Back 3

That physicians were bringing in pathogens (from the previous dissection of corpses) that brought upon the death of new mothers

Front 4

What was Semmelweis's mistake that caused the medical establishment to adopt his procedures 20 years late?

Back 4

He did not publish his results

Front 5

What are the four perspctives on the value of research? Briefly describe each

Back 5

1. Radical: Every man has the right to an opinion no matter how different it is from mine.
2. Earth scientist: The combination of information from all earth scientists will determine the "truth". But we must be prepared for that every new truth found, it is possible it will alter the conclusions we have known.
3. Historian: Always ask where's the evidence? Be aware of grand claims in history's name or those that have unconvered truth once and for all.
4. Physicist: We live to research and find proof in our lives. Every data input leads to finding something and that continues search to find the truth is what gives people life.

Front 6

How do we know what is real?

Back 6

Sensory processes:

- Taste

- Vision

- Hearing

Front 7

What is our job as researchers in order to find out the truth?

Back 7

- To be aware of our limitations as a human being

- To question the results of our (and others) research

- To continue to improve our research methodology