1. Observation and Data Collection: Scientists started to make systematic observations and collect data about natural phenomena. They recorded their findings meticulously and looked for patterns and regularities in the data.
2. Experimentation: Experiments became a crucial tool for testing hypotheses and theories. Scientists designed experiments that allowed them to control and manipulate variables systematically, isolate factors, and observe the effects of changes.
3. Inductive Reasoning: Based on their observations and experimental results, scientists used inductive reasoning to draw conclusions and generalize about the natural world. They sought to establish cause-and-effect relationships and formulate general laws or principles.
4. Mathematical Reasoning: Mathematics played an increasingly significant role in scientific investigations. Scientists employed mathematical tools to analyze data, derive relationships between variables, and develop quantitative models to describe natural phenomena.
5. Repeatability and Verification: Scientists emphasized the importance of repeatability and verification of results. They encouraged other scientists to replicate their experiments and scrutinize their findings to ensure their validity and reliability.
6. Publication of Results: Scientific journals and publications emerged during this era, allowing scientists to share their findings and engage in open dialogue and peer review. This facilitated the dissemination of new knowledge and encouraged scientific discourse.
7. Collaboration and Exchange: Scientists began to collaborate and exchange ideas, observations, and experimental results with colleagues across disciplines. This fostered a culture of intellectual exchange and mutual learning.
By adopting these methods, scientists during the Scientific Revolution established a rigorous and systematic approach to knowledge acquisition. This empirical approach laid the foundation for modern science and transformed our understanding of the natural world.