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View Full Version : Can science control for all variables?

T'ai Chi
10th October 2006, 02:58 PM
In theory, that might be possible.

Except... do you think science can ever control for the variable time?

This is slightly (philsophically) problematic since even exact repetitions would not be the same on all variables, since time would be different.
Godmode
10th October 2006, 03:16 PM
Science doesn't control anything. Science is about discovery, what is and isn't true.
Tricky
10th October 2006, 03:55 PM
Come on, T'ai Chi, what is with all these stupid questions and polls about knowing "everything" or controlling "all" variables? Are you just trying to catch somebody making an indefensible statement? Why don't you just ask if science can count to infinity?
T'ai Chi
10th October 2006, 03:55 PM
Like controls in an experiment.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scientific_control
blutoski
10th October 2006, 04:03 PM
Like controls in an experiment.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scientific_control

The answer is 'no'. Science is inductive, not deductive.
Dancing David
10th October 2006, 04:42 PM
In theory, that might be possible.

Except... do you think science can ever control for the variable time?

This is slightly (philsophically) problematic since even exact repetitions would not be the same on all variables, since time would be different.

No.. There is an axiomatic principle in physics of isotropy, which is supported along the time line for various epochs, certain constants may vary from epoch to epoch, ie 'inflation'. But one would have to make a credible refutation of a hypothesis that would require say tidal forces to be a confounding variable to worry about the repetiton in various time frames.

But control of all variables is un-needed and impossible.
wollery
10th October 2006, 07:25 PM
No.


Okay T'ai Chi, next stupid question?
RandFan
10th October 2006, 07:56 PM
Science lacks perfect knowledge... DAMN!

It's simply amazing that science gets anything done at all.

I tell you I don't trust it. None of it. I'm through with science.

Tomorrow after I drive down to my Doctor's office to get a refill on my prescription I'm going to email my congressman and demand that they put an end to this presumptuous science. Who the hell needs it?
Complexity
10th October 2006, 08:12 PM
Shut up, Justin.
fuelair
10th October 2006, 08:29 PM
Why?
KingMerv00
10th October 2006, 08:33 PM
So...tired....Tai Chi....annoying.
Genesius
11th October 2006, 11:04 AM
So...tired....Tai Chi....annoying.

OK KM, how about this. . .

Nov 12th, we track T'ai down, dress him up in Redskins' duds, and airdrop him into the Linc.

Let the Eagles fans at the game take care of the problem for us.

:D
Foster Zygote
11th October 2006, 01:52 PM
Is this the internet version of a flaming poo bag on the front porch?

Steven