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The differences between a scientific discovery and a scientific observation can both be a difference in the time taken for each to happen and the type of scientific occurrence in each instance. While the terminology of a scientific observation lends itself to a controlled study of a select group, this is not always the case. At times scientists can come across groups of samples or living things, or creations in a lab setting, that come and go quickly, giving little time to observe their behavior. In these instances important discoveries might be made, such as was the case in penicillin. No matter the terminology, both are important aspects of scientific research and need to be looked at more closely in order to discern their subtle differences.

Examples of Observations

On Earth there are many examples of evolutionary processes that are easily observed. In Africa, Jane Goodall studied apes and came to the conclusion that their behavior was peaceful, non-territorial and nothing like the humans she tried so hard to avoid. However, her observations were strictly limited to one subset on the African continent and were done over short time periods. She concluded through a biased person study that apes do not exhibit traits common in humans and in this way do not resemble their common genetic partner.

Many years later, she returned at the urging of other scientists who studied her sample and was shocked at what she saw. The apes she studied had multiplied because of abundant food sources and, when these sources ran low, began to fight over what few resources were left, eventually driving away the weaker males, youths and females who were no longer able to bear young.

Examples of Discoveries

The telescope has provided many scientists, beginning with Galileo, the tool to see into Earths surrounding environment in order to get a better look at just how large space is, what it contains and our relation to the rest of it. While observations are continually being made, discoveries are constantly being published every time a new comet, galaxy or star is discovered. As the terminology suggests, discoveries tend to, in the American mindset, be thought of as immediate "Eureka!"-like breakthroughs. While this is certainly the case in some instances, it is not always true. If we continue to attempt to draw a line between observations and discoveries, we will lose interest in the lack of instant gratification and lose sight of what wondrous things could open our eyes along the way.

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