Figure 1.11: A mouse cell viewed through a microscope. ( 7 )to their environment. The theory of evolution by natural selection is often called the “great
unifier” of biology, because it applies to every field of biology. It also explains the tremendous
diversity and distribution of organisms across Earth. All living organisms (Figure1.12is a
sampling) on Earth are descended from common ancestors.
Lesson Summary
- Science is a way of understanding (knowing) about the physical world that is based on
evidence, reasoning, and testing predictions. - A body of knowledge that has been thoroughly tested can still undergo further testing,
and revisions as new evidence and questioning are raised. - Science differs from other ways of knowing, because it is entirely based on observable
evidence and its explanations are constantly questioned and tested. - Science produces theories and general knowledge that allow us to better understand
the world and to apply this knowledge to solve problems.
Review Questions
- How is modern science different from other ways of knowing?
- Explain why science cannot be used to examine whether someone is good or bad?
- How is the scientific meaning of the word “theory” different from its use in day-to- day
conversation? - What do all fields of life science have in common?
- What are the three characteristics of evidence?
- What is the goal of science?