====== Scientific study ======

While a scientific study is a [[research study]], not all research studies necessarily adhere to the strict principles of the [[scientific method]]. Scientific studies have a specific focus on adhering to scientific principles and methodologies, whereas research studies encompass a broader range of investigations conducted in various fields.
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The scientific study refers to the systematic and rigorous [[investigation]] of natural phenomena using empirical [[evidence]], [[logical reasoning]], and [[critical thinking]]. It involves the use of the [[scientific method]], which is a process of observing, hypothesizing, testing, analyzing, and interpreting [[data]] to gain a deeper understanding of the world around us.

Scientific studies can be conducted in many different fields, including physics, biology, chemistry, psychology, and sociology, among others. They can be observational, experimental, or a combination of both, and they can be conducted in a laboratory setting or the field.

The primary goal of scientific study is to develop a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of the natural world. This involves formulating hypotheses, collecting data through observation and experimentation, analyzing that data using statistical methods, and drawing conclusions based on the results.

Scientific studies must adhere to certain principles and standards, including:

Objectivity: scientific studies must be conducted in an impartial and unbiased manner, without allowing personal beliefs or opinions to influence the results.
Reproducibility: scientific studies must be able to be replicated by other researchers to ensure that the results are reliable and valid.
Control: scientific studies must be designed with appropriate controls to ensure that any observed effects are due to the variables being studied and not to other factors.
Ethical considerations: scientific studies must be conducted with respect for the rights and welfare of human and animal subjects, and must adhere to ethical guidelines and regulations.
Overall, scientific study is a critical component of advancing our understanding of the world and improving our lives through the development of new technologies, treatments, and insights.
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The largest determinant of whether physicians agree on
a treatment’s [[efficacy]] is likely the result of scientific studies
((Ellis J, Mulligan I, Rowe J, Sackett DL: Inpatient general
medicine is evidence based. Lancet 346:407–410, 1995)).

However, questions remain as to which kinds of studies and what volume of [[investigation]]s are required to move
a treatment from experimental to validated. Additionally, there may be numerous external forces that contribute to
an innovation’s pace and process
((Rogers EM: Diffusion of Innovations, ed 5. New York: Free
Press, 2003))
Pressures from the lay community, regulatory rulings, and funding sources are examples of factors that could play a role in the evolution of a new idea. All are components worthy of study. Considering the wide implications of which treatments become designated as acceptable, further investigation of how a therapy moves from conception to acceptance is warranted.
This is particularly important in fields in which treatment development is less standardized. For many new drugs, the developmental pathway in the United States is laid out from preclinical studies through Phase 3 randomized controlled trials by FDA regulations. Other countries use their processes. But for other treatments, particularly surgeries
((Biffl WL, Spain DA, Reitsma AM, Minter RM, Upperman J,
Wilson M, et al: Responsible development and application of
surgical innovations: a position statement of the Society of
University Surgeons. J Am Coll Surg 206:1204–1209, 2008))
the progression of a [[procedure]] to [[community]] acceptance is less clear.
===== Classification =====

see [[Study Classification]].