The scientific method is central to all work that a scientist does. Can this method be used in the ordinary activities of life? How might a scientific approach to life change how you choose your clothing or your recreational activities, or which kind of car you buy? Can these choices be analyzed scientifically? Should they be analyzed scientifically? Is there anything wrong with looking at these matters from a scientific point of view?

Can properties of clothing, or exercise, or cars be quantified? Why might an arctic explorer be more interested in scientific tests of the insulating value of clothing than someone from New York City? Would a competitive swimmer wear baggy, cotton swim trunks? How is fuel efficiency and crashworthiness determined? Should a cardiac patient and a football lineman use the same exercise programs? How do they know what kind of program to use?