Science relies on evidence and reason from "summary" of Darwin's Dangerous Idea by Daniel C. Dennett
Science is a peculiar enterprise. It is not like religion or politics, where one can make grand proclamations based on faith or ideology. In science, evidence is the currency that matters most. Scientists do not simply accept ideas because they sound good or appeal to their emotions. They demand evidence, solid and reliable evidence, before they are willing to consider something as true. Reason is another crucial aspect of science. It is not enough to have evidence; one must also use reason to make sense of that evidence. Scientists rely on careful reasoning to interpret their data, to formulate hypotheses, and to test those hypotheses through experiments and observations. This process is what sets science apart from other ways of knowing. When it comes to evolution, the same principles apply. Darwin's theory of natural selection was not accepted because it was elegant or poetic, but because it was supported by a wealth of evidence and could withstand rigorous scrutiny. Scientists examined the fossil record, observed the diversity of life on Earth, and conducted experiments to test Darwin's ideas. And time and time again, the evidence supported the theory of evolution through natural selection. This reliance on evidence and reason is what makes science such a powerful tool for understanding the world. It is not infallible, of course. Scientists can make mistakes, misinterpret data, or hold on to outdated theories for too long. But the beauty of science is that it is self-correcting. When new evidence comes to light, when better explanations are proposed, science has the flexibility to adapt and change. In the end, what matters most in science is not authority or tradition, but evidence and reason. These are the guiding principles that have led to some of the greatest discoveries in human history. And they will continue to drive scientific progress in the years to come.
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