A mature science represents a structure of three distinct but related parts: fundamental principles, derived inferences, and observed facts. The meaning of each of these for science activity is discussed and illustrated by Galileo's work. (MNS)

Insights regarding speech acts and pragmatic presuppositions are related to a philosophy of science. (AM)

Discusses a 650-word statement signed by 179 prominent scientists, educators, and religious leaders affirming evolution as a principle of science. The statement, issued by the American Humanist Association, is being sent to major school districts in the U.S. (MLH)

Makes a case for an alternative epistemology of research based on the hermeneutic-phenomenology of Max van Manen (1990). This interpretive approach to understanding the nature of a social phenomenon involves the researcher in making explicit the meaning of a particular lived experience and generating a pedagogical thoughtfulness in readers.…

Presents views on the integration of indigenous science into science teaching and discusses the rationale of this act. (Contains 21 references.) (Author/YDS)

Describes methods used by scientists to investigate the past. Explains the scientific model existing in textbooks and methods for studying evolutionary history. (Contains 30 references.) (YDS)

For many, doing science is entertaining, and engaging in a science activity for its entertainment value is a credible rationale. Drawing parallels between science and various forms of entertainment from sports to opera, highlights the value of "infotainment". Also mentions the risks associated with entertaining the public with science.…

Describes the nature, history, and applications of Doppler radar detecting the speed of moving object. Gives an example of measuring the radial velocity of a scattered wave. (YP)

Distinguishes between Galileo's original 20-year trial and the subsequent 350-year controversy and the historical aftermath of the original episode from the reflective commentary on it. Provides an in-depth characterization and sketch of the historical aftermath and reflective commentary. Contains 90 references. (Author/WRM)

Examines how science educators and educational researchers have drawn on the fragmented teachings of science studies about the nature of science, and how they have used those teachings as a resource in their own projects. Analyzes some of the deep assumptions about the relationship between science, school science, and children's learning.…

Argues that, although naturalized philosophy of science points to important aspects of the scientific process that have not attracted the attention they deserve, it is not an acceptable philosophy. Claims that the basic theses of full-fledged naturalized philosophy of science simply cannot be true since they end up either in logical circles or in…

Examines recent developments in Nancy Cartwright's philosophy of science against the background of her earlier ideas. Argues that Cartwright's views fall within the broad empiricist tradition. Contains 19 references. (Author/WRM)

Defends deductivism, the view that the only valid arguments are deductively valid arguments, and that deductive logic is the only logic that is or is needed. Explains the validity and soundness of some inductive arguments in terms of this view. Contains 12 references. (Author/WRM)

Describes the division of universalists and multiculturalists over the question of the nature of science. Universalists maintain that science has a universal essence and western modern science is the paradigm example of such science. Multiculturalists appeal to the disunity of science thesis to undermine the view that all sciences must have a…

Examines the debate about how science should be re/presented in informal science settings, specifically the possibility of science centers and science museums addressing socio-scientific issues. Situates the debate within the current science education literature on the nature of science (NOS) and science, technology, society and environment (STSE)…