Previous Year Question
Consider the following statements:
Scientific investigation depends on commitment to practical ideals.
Honesty is particularly important in science.
Select the correct answer from the codes given below:
Both statements 1 and 2 are correct.
Both statements 1 and 2 are incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct, 2 is not correct.
Statement 1 is correct, 2 is unpredictable.
Correct Answer: A
Detailed Solution
Statement 1 is correct. Scientific investigation is not limited merely to conducting observations and experiments; it requires commitment to practical ideals such as objectivity, accuracy, evidence, transparency and responsible research practices.
Observations and data obtained in research must be recorded and reported as they are actually obtained. Altering data to fit a predetermined conclusion destroys the reliability of scientific investigation.
Statement 2 is also correct. Honesty is extremely important in science because scientific knowledge develops further on the results and records obtained by other researchers.
Fabrication, falsification or misrepresentation of data violates research integrity. Therefore, integrity and honesty are necessary for maintaining the reliability and reproducibility of scientific research.