Science advances remarkably when we transform phenomena perceived as non-reproducible or unpredictable into systems that are both reproducible and predictable. Key to this transformation is isolating critical variables that make the unpredictable, predictable, thereby propelling scientific progress. Ref: [[Invention Systems]] | [[Predicting Tech Progress]] ### Technology to observe & measure the unseen propels science forward. **Instrumentation and record-keeping** are also pivotal in advancing science. Historical examples illustrate this well: [[Gregor Mendel]]'s diligent counting of pea plants paved the way for *modern genetics*. Similarly, [[Johann Balmer]]'s precise documentation of hydrogen's emission spectra was a cornerstone in developing *quantum mechanics*. These instances show how the comprehensive analysis of stars, genomes, and atoms, often reduced to mere counts, has deepened our understanding of the universe. Ref: [[Quantum Tech MOC]] ![[Pasted image 20240121140841.png]] ### Foundational ideas bring us forward irrespective of execution Exceptional mathematicians and physicists like [[Srinivasan Ramanujan]] and [[Richard Feynman]], with their unique ability to **observe and document the unseen**, have significantly advanced our knowledge. Their contributions exemplify how the power of an idea, much like [[James Maxwell]]'s equations or [[Isaac Newton]]'s laws, can drive scientific advancement, **transcending the significance of mere execution.** > In entrepreneurship, people often say it's not the idea it's the execution. But that's only true for trivial ideas. For great ideas like Maxwell's equations or Newton's laws, **the idea itself really brings us forward.** ![[Pasted image 20240121225040.png]] Ref: [[Venture Building Operation Principles]] | [[Perpetual Venture System]] ### Industrial applications & real-world practice can drive theory too. Science often progresses through a **feedback loop between practice and theory.** Practical phenomena, initially lacking theoretical backing, can stimulate theoretical advancements, enhancing our understanding. For instance, the development of **steam engines predated the establishment of thermodynamic theory by over a century**, showcasing how practice can lead to theoretical breakthroughs. ![[Pasted image 20240121225527.png]] We are somewhat used to thinking about **theoretical science as the driver of experimental and applied sciences.** That is, we might be tempted to believe that scientists develop a theory and _then_ apply it to produce new technologies. The history of science shows us that this is not always how science operates. In the case of thermodynamics, theoretical physics certainly did not steer the course of what became the science of energy physics. Industry did. Ref: [[Laws of Thermodynamics]] ### Independent replication is as important as citations. > Reproducibility and replicability are the foundations of quality scientific discovery. - Reproducible results can be achieved multiple times in a row by the same team using the same methodology. - Replicable results can be achieved by a different group using the same experimental setup. ![[Pasted image 20240121233449.png]] In the realm of scientific validation, there is a growing emphasis on the importance of **independent replication in addition to peer review. **Scientific truths, to be robust, must withstand the rigours of independent verification. This approach challenges the traditional reliance on peer-reviewed journals as the sole arbiters of scientific validity. The role of prestigious institutions in science is undeniable. They are powerhouses of intelligence and innovation, yet their prestige should not replace the necessity for independent replication. Emphasising independent replication over citation metrics could yield more robust scientific discoveries. ### Rise of [[Decentralized Science]] In this digital era, innovative platforms like a blockchain-based version of Sci-hub could revolutionize scientific publishing. Such platforms would allow publishers to earn by making research papers openly accessible online, ensuring wider dissemination and verification of scientific work. Examples: [VitaDAO](https://www.vitadao.com/), [Molecule DAO](https://www.molecule.xyz/) ![[Pasted image 20240121233702.png]] There are inherent benefits of [[Decentralization]] & [[Cryptonetworks]] that could help overcome and facilitate solutions to certain challenges currently faced in progressing science efficiently and effectively. For instance, [[Compute to data]] and [[Confidential Computing]] could help with making private data accessible securely. Ref: [[Why Decentralization]] | [[Case for DAOs and Crypto Communities]] This is relevant given the constant battle between [[Deception x Detection]] ----