Scientific Methodology [Neurosurgery Wiki]

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===== Scientific Methodology =====

**Scientific [[method]]ology** refers to the **[[systematic]], [[logical]], and [[empirical]] framework** used to investigate questions, generate knowledge, and validate findings through **observation, experimentation, and analysis**.

==== Core Components ====
  * **Observation**: Careful identification of phenomena or patterns.
  * **Hypothesis formulation**: Testable and falsifiable propositions.
  * **Experimental design**: Controlled methods to test hypotheses.
  * **Data collection**: Accurate and objective gathering of information.
  * **Analysis**: Use of statistical or computational tools to interpret results.
  * **Validation**: Reproducibility, peer review, and external confirmation.
  * **Conclusion**: Interpretation of findings in context, acknowledging limitations.

==== Principles ====
  * **Objectivity**: Avoiding bias in design, interpretation, and reporting.
  * **Reproducibility**: Methods and results should be repeatable by others.
  * **Transparency**: Clear documentation of procedures and assumptions.
  * **Falsifiability**: Theories must be disprovable by evidence.

==== Misuse Warning ====
Use of the term “scientific methodology” without adherence to these principles can be misleading, especially in:
  * Poorly validated AI models
  * Overinterpreted tractography results
  * Flashy but untested clinical tools