Thinking Like a Scientist: Can We Be Objective? What makes a good scientist? Scientists must be careful to look at the natural world as it really is. They must not let their feelings or opinions influence their data or conclusions. By doing this, they remain objective. Try This! Why Do Robins Sing? Brainstorm why robins sing. Make a class list of all your reasons. How did you come up with your answers? Did you make precise observations or measurements? Or did you base your list on your own experiences, assumptions, and opinions (for example, "Robins sing when they're happy)? How do you think scientists have come up with answers to this question? They made precise observations and recodings in many environments. They methodically gathered and organized their data. This evidence then helped them explain the behaviors and draw conclusions. They remain objective! Here's what scientists have learned by studying bird songs: Robins sing to defend a territory! In fact, if you could translate a robin's song into English the robin would be saying, "Stay away, this is mine!" and "Keep off! This is MY territory!" It would repeat this hundreds of times a day. Listen to a robin's spring song! Try This! What's in a Name? Make a list of qualities that come to mind when you see or hear each of these labels: princess jock sissy bully What images do they paint in your minds? How much do they really tell you about an individual? Consider This: We often make assumptions about others' feelings, personalities, and intentions based on how we see the world. Names and labels can reinforce these subjective interpretations. They also create pictures in our minds that influence our thoughts and feelings about others. Why Scientists Avoid Naming Animals They Study Scientists must keep an open mind, make precise observations, and carefully gather data. In order to interpret, explain, and draw conclusions about what they see, they must avoid letting "subjective" feelings or opinions influence them. If they named animals they studied, they may be more likely to interpret behaviors through a subjective "human" lens. So keep your eye on eagle P04! Digging Deeper Learn more about what makes scientists tick! Copyright 2006 Journey North. All Rights Reserved. Please send all questions, comments, and suggestions to our feedback form