Publication Details

Category Text Publication
Reference Category Journals
DOI 10.3167/nc.2020.150101
Document author version
Title (Primary) Uncertainty as a driving force for geoscientific development
Author Paasche, H.; Paasche, K.; Dietrich, P. ORCID logo
Source Titel Nature & Culture
Year 2020
Department MET
Volume 15
Issue 1
Page From 1
Page To 18
Language englisch
Keywords discovery science; Earth science; Earth system dynamics; hypothesis-driven science; uncertainty; uncertainty quantification
Abstract Geoscientists invest significant effort to cope with uncertainty in Earth system observation and modeling. While general discussions exist about uncertainty and risk communication, judgment and decision-making, and science communication with regard to Earth sciences, in this article, we tackle uncertainty from the perspective of Earth science practitioners. We argue different scientific methodologies must be used to recognize all types of uncertainty inherent to a scientific finding. Following a discovery science methodology results in greater potential for the quantification of uncertainty associated to scientific findings than staying inside hypothesis-driven science methodology, as is common practice. Enabling improved uncertainty quantification could relax debates about risk communication and decision-making since it reduces the room for personality traits when communicating scientific findings.
Persistent UFZ Identifier https://www.ufz.de/index.php?en=20939&ufzPublicationIdentifier=22889
Paasche, H., Paasche, K., Dietrich, P. (2020):
Uncertainty as a driving force for geoscientific development
Nat. Cult. 15 (1), 1 - 18 10.3167/nc.2020.150101