A tentative explanation for an observation, phenomenon, or scientific problem that can be tested by further investigation. A testable statement via observation.
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Theory
The process of arriving at a general conclusion from observation of particular facts. E.g: the big bang theory.
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Induction
The analysis of a set of facts in their relation to one another. Scientific theories are based on this. The opposite of deduction.
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Deduction
Making a fact based only on evidence. The opposite of induction.
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Prediction
The assertion on the bases of theory, data, or experience but in advance of proof. You predict what will happen under certain circumstances.
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Falsification
To prove to be false or disprove. Peer assessment is used to check others work for this.
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Empiricism
The view that experience, especially of the senses, is the only source of knowledge. Empirical evidence is based on observations and experiments.
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Occam's Razor
With any set of explanations for why an event occurs, it is most likely that the simplest one is the correct one.
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Scientific Method
1) Define the problem or question (what do they want to find out) 2) Gather information 3) Form a hypothesis 4) Experiment and observation (empiricism) 5) Analyse the data (look for trends) 6) Come to a conclusion (support or disprove the hypothesis)
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The Rule of Law
The restriction of power by well-defined and established laws.
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Statutes
Laws approved by parliament
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Common Law
Developed over many years and based on judicial precendent
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European LAw
Can take precedent over UK law
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Delegated Legistlation
Whereby approved institutions or government bodies are allowed to issue regulations to clarify/extend statutes
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Criminal Law
Investigated by the police. Tried in Magistrated or Crown Court. Punished by fines or inprisonment.
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Civil Law
An individual brings the case and courts determine responsibility and damages if appropriate.
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Crime
A serious offence against an individual or the state, punishable by law.
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Summary Offences
Heard in the Magistrates Court, these are offences such as speeding or minor theft and can result in a maximum punishment of 6 months imprisonment or a £3000 fine.
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Indictable Offences
Referred to the Crown Court, there include crimes such as murder and fraud.
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Fines
Financial punishment for minor offences
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Community Service
A fixed number of hours doing specified work, used instead of a prison sentence or a fine.
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Custodial Sentences
Normally referred to as imprisonment, used normally for violent crimes but due to overcrowding in prisons there has been a call for other types of punishment.
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Probation
The suspension of a prison sentence as long as the offender abides by certain conditions.
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Electronic Tagging
A form of surveillance where a GPS is placed on the offender and they are out under certain conditions
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ASBO
Certain conditions to stop anti social behaviour
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Capitol Punishment
The death penalty, which is no longer legal in the UK
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Retribution
A purpose of punishment. Offenders should suffer for what they have done.
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Incapacitation
A purpose of punishment. Makes it impossible for criminals to reoffend.
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Reformation/Rehabilitation
A purpose of punishment. Aims to change the behaviour of the offender.
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Reparation
A purpose of punishment. Offenders should compensate victims for what they have done.
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Utilitarianism
The philosophical doctrine that judges activities according to whether they promote the 'greatest good for the greatest number', i.e. whether they make more people happier.
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Science
A way to describe how humans are trying to understand the world and the universe.
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Philosophy
Intellectual enquiry concerned with questions of ethics, metaphysics, epistemology, and logic.
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Ethics
In philosogy, how one should live
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Metaphysics
In philosophy, what sorts of things exist
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Epistemology
In philosophy, what counts a genuine knowledge
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Logic
In philosophy, what are the correct principles of reasoning
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Other cards in this set
Card 2
Front
The process of arriving at a general conclusion from observation of particular facts. E.g: the big bang theory.
Back
Theory
Card 3
Front
The analysis of a set of facts in their relation to one another. Scientific theories are based on this. The opposite of deduction.
Back
Card 4
Front
Making a fact based only on evidence. The opposite of induction.
Back
Card 5
Front
The assertion on the bases of theory, data, or experience but in advance of proof. You predict what will happen under certain circumstances.
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