The Scientific Approach is systematic observational process used to better explain and understand the natural world. By using our senses, the specific features of an object are gathered as evidence that allows a hypothesis to be formed. Through a hypothesis, predictions are made prior to the experimental process that is generally brought on by corresponding their observations to previous knowledge. Because of this, the experimental step is key in filtering previous knowledge with new knowledge brought on by new observation. This data is observed and measured objectively with the hypothesis. If new knowledge is found, a hypothesis is then modified to correspond to the new facts, which continue to be tested numerously until a level of consistency is obtained through strictly verifiable facts.
In order for an objects feature to be verifiable, it must be observable and testable- leaving it primarily falsifiable and empirical in nature. Unlike a rationalist approach, the scientific approach is designed to teach us something that we did not know before. In order to do that, a person needs to be able to correspond one fact to another by direct observation. Showing its empirical nature, this method final step can only be held to a degree of truth if there is some objective truth in the world telling us it is true. Although a rationalist may use prior knowledge or the experience to find their own conclusions, these conclusions come from the mind and therefore are not rational and knowable. Any truth that comes about in trying to gain a better understanding of reality implies that there is a correspondence needed to what is in the mind and the outside world. No truth can be found within an object itself, but rather is found within the propositions describing it. This is why when a hypothesis is tested; it creates a link between our observations and the actual identity of an objects specific features together- creating new knowledge for us and another person who may choose to observe the same.
