Non-scientific

Describing something that does not adhere to the principles and practices of science, especially those involving empirical observation, experimentation, and the formulation of testable hypotheses. It often refers to ideas, methods, or pursuits that rely on subjective experiences, anecdotal evidence, faith-based beliefs, or other frameworks that are not validated through the scientific method. This can encompass a vast array of fields, from spiritual practices and artistic expression to philosophical inquiries and everyday reasoning.

Non-scientific meaning with examples

• The ancient Greeks, while laying foundations for philosophical and mathematical thought, often incorporated non-scientific explanations for natural phenomena. Their mythology, filled with gods and mythical creatures, provided a non-scientific framework for understanding the world before the development of systematic scientific investigation. This shows how non-scientific explanations can pre-date science.
• A psychic reading relies heavily on intuition and personal interpretation; it offers predictions through non-scientific methods. While some might find comfort or insight in such readings, they do not involve controlled experiments or the verification of claims through rigorous scientific analysis. Therefore, it is seen as a non-scientific practice.
• During medieval times, alchemy, with its quest to transmute base metals into gold, represented a non-scientific pursuit, even though it involved experimentation. Lacking the rigorous methodologies of modern chemistry, alchemical practices were based more on philosophical beliefs and symbolic interpretations rather than repeatable and verifiable scientific principles.
• Many consider astrology as a non-scientific area, as astrological predictions do not correlate consistently with real-world outcomes, and no mechanism exists that could plausibly explain any astrological influences on human affairs. Astrology lacks the empirical support needed to be a part of scientific study.