Exact science
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The term exact science refers to fields of study that admit especially precise predictions and rigorous methods of testing hypotheses, especially reproducible experiments involving quantifiable predictions and measurements. The term implies a dichotomy between these fields and those such as sociology and economics, where prediction and experiment are more difficult. It also suggests that the former are more rigorous than the latter, and their results more reliable. Today the distinction is widely considered old-fashioned, and scientists very rarely use this term. The terms hard science, pure science, and fundamental science are very similar.