What is casual observation and why is it different from scientific disipline?

A casual observation: I see a squirrel scampering around in a large tree.

Scientific discipline: I would indicate the types of squirrel and tree. I would ask what the squirrel is doing and why.

Casual observation refers to the act of noticing or perceiving something without systematic planning or specific research objectives. It is a spontaneous and informal way of gathering information about the world. Casual observation can involve our everyday experiences, personal opinions, and general observations that we make without following any particular method or protocol.

On the other hand, scientific discipline, also known as scientific observation, is a systematic and rigorous process carried out in scientific research. It involves carefully planned and controlled methodologies to gather data and test hypotheses. Scientific discipline follows specific protocols and methods, ensuring that observations are objective, replicable, and free from biases.

The key differences between casual observation and scientific discipline lie in their purpose, methodology, and level of rigour. Casual observation is often driven by personal curiosity or general interest, whereas scientific discipline aims to investigate specific research questions and contribute to a larger body of scientific knowledge. Scientific observation requires designing experiments, defining variables, controlling for confounding factors, and collecting data in a standardized manner to ensure the reliability and validity of the findings.

Overall, the main distinction between casual observation and scientific discipline lies in their level of rigor, adherence to specific protocols, and the purpose they serve in understanding the world around us. While casual observation can be valuable for generating ideas or initial insights, scientific discipline provides a more systematic and reliable approach to acquiring knowledge.