Chapter 1, Problem 12RQ

How do scientists regard “not knowing� in general?

To determine

The way a scientist regards “not knowing� in general.

Answer to Problem 12RQ

The scientists must accept that there are some limitations to knowing. Some of these have been imposed by the nature itself. So, "not knowing" is generally acceptable to a scientist.

Explanation of Solution

In science, "not knowing" is acceptable, while a scientist's endeavor is to get answers and to know more and more about the ideas and do various inventions. Scientists must accept that there are some limitations to knowing. It is actually not a shortcoming of scientists, but a limitation imposed by nature itself.

Consider the Uncertainty principle, which dictates the position and velocity of a particle cannot be determined accurately at the same time. More we know about one, less information we have about the other.

Conclusion:

Therefore, there are some limitations to knowing. So, "not knowing" is generally acceptable to a scientist.