and (e)
socially and culturally embedded, and it necessarily involves a combination of observation and
inferences. One additional aspect not currently addressed by reform documents but closely
related to an understanding of the role of observation and inference is the function of and
relationship between scientific theories and laws. Together, these seven aspects provide a profile of the scientific enterprise. While they are listed separately here, it is important to note that these aspects of the nature of science are actually closely interrelated. It would be incorrect to view any of them as standing alone.