PHILOSOPHY 031 – 60+ Midterm Questions with Verified Answers on Scientific Reasoning, Hypothesis Testing, Models, Variables & Ecological Experiments (AY 2025/2026)

This in-depth midterm reviewer offers 60+ verified questions and detailed answers designed for the PHILOSOPHY 031 course, tailored to meet the 2025/2026 academic year curriculum. The content focuses on scientific reasoning and research methodology, merging philosophical concepts with real-world scientific practice. It is an essential resource for mastering the foundations of critical thinking, experimental design, and logical inquiry. Key areas include: Scientific reasoning as a structured process involving observation, hypothesis construction, prediction, experimentation, and data analysis The formation and evaluation of novel research questions, including how to identify originality and feasibility Definitions and distinctions between theoretical models, hypotheses, predictions, and data Exploration of natural history, natural vs manipulative experiments, and the value of observation vs causality Core statistical and experimental concepts such as independent/dependent variables, controls, replication, pseudoreplication, randomization, and sample size Introduction to model building, including general vs specific models, criteria for good models, and how models contribute to theoretical development Classification and explanation of quantitative, nominal, ordinal, and circular variables, along with their implications for statistical analysis This reviewer is designed for students in Philosophy of Science, Ecology, Research Methods, Ethics, and General Philosophy who need a comprehensive and applied understanding of how philosophical reasoning supports empirical inquiry. The Q&A format makes it ideal for midterm preparation, quick review, and structured study sessions. Keywords: scientific reasoning, hypothesis, prediction, theoretical model, model evaluation, observation, experiment design, natural experiment, manipulative experiment, controls, variables, nominal variable, ordinal variable, circular variable, statistical significance, pseudoreplication, PHILOSOPHY 031, midterm exam, critical thinking, sample size