What should methods in scientific inquiry allow for according to the principles?

Methods in scientific inquiry should allow for direct investigation of the research question because this is fundamental to the scientific process. This means that scientists need to develop and use methodologies that enable them to gather evidence and collect data about specific hypotheses or inquiries they want to explore. By directly investigating the research question, scientists can draw conclusions based on empirical evidence rather than conjecture or intuition.

This direct investigation often involves designing experiments or observational studies that target the specific question at hand. It ensures that the scientific approach remains objective and systematic, focusing on testing predictions and understanding phenomena based on observable facts. The ability to focus on specific research questions is what differentiates scientific inquiry from other forms of knowledge acquisition.

In contrast, other options suggest practices that do not adhere to the principles of effective scientific inquiry, such as manipulating data for desired outcomes, making observations without questioning, or relying on complex theoretical assumptions without empirical basis. These approaches do not foster a transparent or valid investigation of scientific questions.