This journal explains and reflects on the core scientific principles (e.g., relativism, objectivity, skepticism) and how they apply to cybersecurity. Offers interpretations grounded in Rea-world tech use.

Nicholas Dorsey

May 31, 2025

         There are currently seven Principles of Science: relativism, objectivity, parsimony, objectivity, skepticism, ethical neutrality, and determinism. In today’s journal entry I will be defining these terms and providing insight on how I interpret them in addition to how they relate to Cyber Security.

            Relativism is defined as the claim that standards of truth, rationality, and ethical right and wrong vary greatly between cultures and historical epochs and that there are no universal criteria for adjudicating between them on a philosophical standpoint (ScienceDirect.com, 2015). In the CYSE201S course slides relativism is described as everything being related and every point of view having meaning that ties into the overall conversation of things. Relativism in the scope of cyber security to me means that all things and different disciplines of daily life and education tie into cyber security and technology in some shape, form, or fashion. The education system, agriculture, grid systems, healthcare, literally everything ties into cyber security or requires it in some way. Things will only continue to blend and cross over as technology and mankind advances.

            Next up, we have objectivity. In the course slides objectivity refers to the way scientist study and observe in a manner that is free of values. In my opinion as it relates to cyber security, this means we should look at technology and how it will affect different things in society without bias and being opinionated to make sound and just observations or decisions.

            Another principle is parsimony. Parsimony in “layman’s terms” means try to keep things in “layman’s terms”. Things should be explained as simple as possible. With that being said, I interpret this principle as explaining advanced theories and technological things as simply as possible so that the public can understand it as well.

            Then we have empiricism. Empiricism means basically that things can only be studied that can be interpreted with the senses. This to me means that scientists can’t just make concrete decisions or hypothesize without being able to test the hunch, it can’t just be an opinion.

            Also, there is ethical neutrality. As this pertains to social science and cyber security, it is looking at things and being ethical or making sure research and scientific study is being conducted ethically. This can pertain to governmental oversight and observing society without their consent or collecting data without permissions.

            Lastly, there is determinism. Determinism means that things are determined by previous events, and nothing is of free will. Determinism can be seen in cyber security and social sciences when we think about cybercrime. I personally thin free will is always present to an extent.

            These are the scientific principles and how I view them and their relationship to cyber security and social science. I hope you have gained insight and formulated a deeper understanding as well.

References

Baghramian, M. “Relativism – an Overview. ScienceDirect Topics.” ScienceDirect.com, 2015, www.sciencedirect.com/topics/psychology/relativism.