Scientific Process In Anthropology

Scientific Processes in Anthropology Anthropology is a science defined as "the study of humankind in all times and places" (Haviland, et al. 2014:3), and just as any other science those that study anthropology employ the scientific process in their research. The scientific process is a method for explaining, testing, and proving ideas produced by an individual. This process begins with the formation of an idea or question, focusing the train of thought to a particular topic. This idea is then refined into a hypothesis, seeking to provide "a tentative explanation of the relationships among" (Haviland, et al. 2014:16) the particular topic being studied. After the hypothesis has been made clear it is then tested extensively and data is gathered, …show more content…
The film discusses the events of the discovery of unknown cavities and openings in limestone bedrock on a property in Miami, Florida, and the attempts of numerous scientists from differing scientific fields to provide an explanation of origin for the holes. The first idea was that the holes could have been a possible result of erosion, but as more of the basins and holes were uncovered a possible arch shape was observed in the placement of the basins, shedding doubt on the idea of random manmade erosion. Upon measuring the width of the arch, another scientist predicted that the basins could possibly be arranged in a full circle and as more were uncovered the circle hypothesis was proven correct. With the discovery of a circular pattern to the holes, scientists began to consider the possibility of these holes being a remnant of a monument left by a lost people. (Mystery …show more content…
Despite the desire for the holes to be from an ancient people scientists had to rule out the possibility of simple septic tank erosion in order to properly adhere to the scientific process and pursue all data presented by the excavation of the holes. The holes were later proved to predate the tank upon the analysis of the limestone and the discovery of duracrust on the inner parts of the holes, displaying just how easily an idea can be proven and disproven in science. With the septic tank hypothesis ruled out, scientists again began to look for a people known to exist during the time that the holes were dated to. Their attention turned to an ancient people known as the Tequesta, despite documentation supporting the idea that they were a nomadic people, as artifacts known to be Tesquestian were found at the site. (Mystery