The Scientific Method; Academia

Over several months and several threads, questions have been raised about how we come to know, such as through the scientific method.
Separate from the method are the people that do or do not employ it. What is the life of a scientist like, some wonder. Or, perhaps some are wondering how trustworthy scientists are?

This thread should stick closely to these two topics: the scientific method and the scientists themselves.

I'll share my thoughts later. For now, I'd like those of you with questions to ask them. What precisely are your concerns with the scientific method, for example?

(BTW, I've noticed some of the people with questions or concerns about the scientific method are the same ones that have pointed out many times the issue of S@H WUs not being analyzed. Is there a contradiction here?)
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The impetus for this thread are certain posts from the "Planet X Discovered" thread.

http://setiathome.berkeley.edu/forum_thread.php?id=47070&nowrap=true#753171 (Taurus) and ... well, the other posts that you know were made. For example, some posts by my friend Knightmare. So, for example, Taurus and KM, I'd like to see that conversation continue here. Perhaps candorchasma might wish to join us in this conversation.

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Sarge,

Apparently I am missing something here --what's the issue.?
The scientific method proposes a hypothesis--based on trying to explain an observation of Nature or a conjecture based on the consequence of a theory.

Hopefully the hypothesis can be tested --proving it correct/incorrect by observation or inference from related, observed phenomena.

The hypothesis may have to be adjusted many times based on observational results.

I didn't catch the posts on following up on SETI work units--I have had those same wonderings. The BOINC -SETI folks should do a better job of reassuring everyone and posting the results of previous years' efforts. I would also like to see an explanation of how this fits in with other SETI efforts at Berkley and elsewhere.

Thread closed. Thanks.
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