7. Methodology and specifics of Scientific knowledge in an Environmental Science.

The important role in scientific knowledge is played by a scientific method. For understanding - what is a scientific method, we will consider that such a method in general.In general, the method — is a way of the organization of tools (resources, receptions, operations and other) theoretical and practical activities. Any reasonable action submits to particular regulatory principles on which option the result of activity significantly depends.The method optimizes activity of human (person), give him the most rational ways of the activity organization. The concept of method is closely connect with concept of methodology.

The methodology — is a science about regularities of the activity method, about an origin submits, essence (to substance) of methods, their effectiveness. The methodology is aimed to develop the principles of creation of the most perfect methods in each form of activity.

The scientific knowledge — is a special form of human activity. As each activity, knowledge also leans on a particular set of means of activity, learning tools. The scientific method — is a way of the organization of learning tools (apparatuses, tools, receptions, object and theoretical and operations other) for achievement of scientific truth, system of the regulatory principles of cognitive activity. The scientific method rationalizes and optimizes scientific knowledge.

The founder of methodology of natural sciences of the XVII century F. Bacon spoke: " A scientific method remind a lamp which shines the road to the traveller in the dark". Explaining value of a scientific method F. Bacon liked to give one more aphorism: even lame, going on the road, advances the one who runs without the road.

8. Scientific knowledge and Scientific method.

Only the sure method can lead to receiving the true knowledge, an original picture of a cognizable subject. The scientific method acts as a form of knowledge as well as practice. The method unites the theory and practice as accumulates the historical experience of knowledge of the world generalized by practice. Such experience also allows a method to direct knowledge process, creation of scientific theories.

The scientific method is a body of techniques for investigating phenomena, acquiring new knowledge, or correcting and integrating previous knowledge. To be termed scientific, a method of inquiry is commonly based on empirical or measurable evidence subject to specific principles of reasoning.

The scientific method is an ongoing process, which usually begins with observations about the natural world. Human beings are naturally inquisitive, so they often come up with questions about things they see or hear and often develop ideas (hypotheses) about why things are the way they are. The best hypotheses lead to predictions that can be tested in various ways, including making further observations about nature. In general, the strongest tests of hypotheses come from carefully controlled and replicated experiments that gather empirical data. Depending on how well the tests match the predictions, the original hypothesis may require refinement, alteration, expansion or even rejection. If a particular hypothesis becomes very well supported a general theory may be developed.