Category Archives: Science

How we do science. Science in Society 3

Posted on September 28, 2014 by Eddie Playfair

Readings Developing and testing scientific explanations When we make observations we may propose a theory which accounts for them. We judge theories on the basis of the match between their predictions and what we observe. An observation is often explained … Continue reading →

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Science and Poetry. Science in Society 2

Posted on September 21, 2014 by Eddie Playfair

Readings Peter Atkins ‘Although poets may aspire to understanding, their talents are more akin to entertaining self-deception. They may be able to emphasise delights in the world, but they are deluded if they and their admirers believe that their identification … Continue reading →

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AS Science in Society: course outline and link to resources

Posted on September 21, 2014 by Eddie Playfair

AS Science in Society (AQA) Why study AS Science in Society? Science in Society is a distinctive post-16 course. Its main intention is to develop the knowledge and skills that you need in order to grapple with issues related to … Continue reading →

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Is doubt the origin of wisdom? Science in Society 1

Posted on September 10, 2014 by Eddie Playfair

Science as a ‘doubt factory’ “Doubt is the first step towards knowledge” Aristotle “Doubt is the key to knowledge” Persian proverb “By doubting we come to inquiry; by inquiry we perceive the truth” Peter Abelard “Dubitum sapientiae initium” (“Doubt is … Continue reading →

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Blob and anti-blob

Posted on May 25, 2014 by Eddie Playfair

‘Lump and label’ name-calling is a poor substitute for real debate in education as elsewhere. The use of the term ‘blob’ is a classic example of ‘lump and label’ thinking or inappropriate use of agglomeration and reification. A wide and … Continue reading →

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