Chivalrous Science

Empiricism

Talking of empires -

Empiricism is considered to be the epitome of proper science. Implying as it does a superior (and thus "objective") view.

Does the empirical scientist seek to conquer and rule the physical (natural) world - in the same manner that en emperor seeks to conquer and rule the human world?

Seems possible - both words derive from the same root.

The empiricist perhaps prepared to subjugate the means to the ends (as does an empire builder).

Is this the only way to do science? Maybe it is if you are unaware of other ways?

Might it be possible to have a Chivalrous Science?

I would have thought so, why not?

A Chivalrous Science - where the means take priority.

A Chivalrous Science where perhaps harmony accompanies each step along the way -

Harmony - where each step is taken (only) if it is Chivalrous.

Seems rather a good idea to me.


To give an example of how it might work -

Not long ago it was reported that the oldest living animal had been discovered. The animal in question was a Clam and it was 400 years old.

To discover the age of the Clam the "scientists" killed it.

In Chivalrous Science the "end" (to discover the age of this living being) would not override the "means" (of discovery). Thus if no method was available to establish the true age of the animal without killing, then it would be left to live on in peace. If and when a technique was discovered which could establish the age without killing the creature - then the work would proceed.

Means led science, Chivalrous Science.

And if you think about it - with that extra patience (in waiting until a non lethal method was developed), Science and knowledge would itself move on further, learning new techniques and skills.

Chivalrous Science - harmonious, civilised, and with greater potential.......