How is practicing science different from watching TV as a way to learn about the world?

Answer 1

Scientists do a wide range of things in their work. They collect information, observe and measure things, for example, as well as conduct experiments. When they do so, they usually have a specific question about reality in mind or a particular problem that needs to be solved. That means that they are selective in what they do. They do not just simply absorb knowledge haphazardly like sponges.

You can learn about scientific facts and theories by watching television, but you are very dependent on what the presenters decide to show and tell you. Some are very biased in their opinions and, for instance, interview only people who would support their ideas. You would need to critically examine what you see and hear and actively pursue answers to any questions that occur to you in order to gain better knowledge.

Television is unidirectional and goal oriented. You sit, you watch, and hopefully absorb something. Science is much more open ended. Doing generally leads to improved understanding. If you can make something work yourself, your retention of the information is far more real and tangible than what you've just seen or heard, particularly as images can be manipulated, and words are even easier to distort or misintepret.