Science Forums 2

[Galapagos]

Science differs from the alternative methods of inquiry in that it has several unique safeguards intended to preserve objectivity and openness to good ideas. Statistical analysis, peer-review, and the demand for repeated experiment are tried and true ways of getting results and making predictions that are useful, clearer reflections of reality.

Of course we must be wary of pet theories, or individual institutions or universities becoming isolated(as mentioned by T-bird above), but I think there is a line between a healthy, warranted skepticism and paranoid distrust.