Quantitative Methods Project: Promoting the use of quantitative methods in ethnobiology
We all know how the "scientific method" works. We've had that drilled into us through out a school career. We call ourselves "scientists" because we apply this methodology.
It is useful, however, to return to our foundations periodically, especially as the "scientific method" guides our research activities and provides a general framework for our investigations.
The important point here is that hypothesis-based research is essential if we are to make progress toward the goal of developing theories regarding ethnobotany. We should be excellent hypothesis creators and we should apply this skill often and with precision.
The alternative is to collect data, just because it can be collected. For example, you can list the plant species used by a community for some purpose. But that sort of exercise doesn't lead very far.
Knowing how to correctly apply the scientific method relates to quantitative methods because it is these techniques that let us rigorously test our hypotheses.
The value of the scientific method is well illustrated in John Platt's compelling discussion of the role of alternative hypotheses in the search for understanding. His article is well worth reading every year or so.
(Example of articles where hypotheses were proposed and followed)
(Summary charts from SEB presentation)
Platt, J.R. 1964. Strong Inference. Science 146: 347-353.
Warning: Reading this paper can change your life.
This article provides an overview and a good review of the basic tenents of the scientific method. Like all good Wikipedia articles, this one has controversial elements (see the Discussion tab). Follow some of the links from this Wikipedia article (such as hypothesis) to dig more deeply into topics.