Ideas
Second Order
Science is the application of the scientific method
to the process of doing science itself. It
calls on scientists to ask questions about what they
are doing, why, and the assumptions upon which those
choices are being made.
People
The Second
Order Science Foundation is actively seeking Fellows
and Research Fellows to support our work and to join
in our intellectual labors. Biographies of
present Foundation Fellows and Research Fellows can
be found by clicking below.
Research
Our team has
published extensively on the ideas of second order
science, reflectivity in science, the dangers of
simplicity, how to mitigate against sloppy science,
the need for greater curation in the academic
publication process and more.
Calls
The Second
Order Foundation has teamed with She Ji: The Journal
of Design, Economics, and Innovation to edit a
special issue on Redesigning the process of
scientific research in the AI era to mitigate
against sloppy science, error, and fraud.
The Need for Reflectivity in the
Process of Science
Not Enough "WHY This CHOICE?" Questions are Asked with Documented Answers
Being
reflective helps scientists identify their own
biases, assumptions, and worldviews that may
unconsciously shape how they form hypotheses, design
studies, and interpret results. Reflectivity also
promotes epistemic humility about the limits and
uncertainties inherent in scientific knowledge
claims, counteracting the tendency for science to
sometimes present itself as the sole arbiter of
truth. It helps curb overly positivist stances that
what is observable and measurable is all that
matters.
The Many Dangers of Sloppy
Science
IN the RUSH To PUBLISH, RIGOR FAR TOO OFTEN IS LOST. SLOPPY SCIENCE RESULTS
When scientists
cut corners, rely on poor study design or analysis,
fail to accurately report and interpret findings, or
make exaggerated claims, it erodes public trust and
skepticism grows around real and sound science.
Sloppy science can lead down problematic paths like
relying on single studies instead of considering the
full body of research, or legitimizing preliminary
findings as conclusive facts thereby perpetuating
false or misleading information through news, social
media and public campaigns.
Sharing the Knowledge
Building Insights
Fellows of the Second Order Science
Foundation have written extensively about
reflectivity in scientific practuce and the need for
greater curation in science publications.
Breaking Boundaries
A principal focus of the Second Order
Science Foundation is to help mitigate against the
ever increasing proliferation of Sloppy Science --
where rigor has been lost.
Implementing Ideas
Current Second Order Science
Foundation project include: Sloppy Science, Improving
Curation in Academic Publishing, and Increasing Health
Consumer Agency.