Most don't know what science is or how science operates.

Although I give you props for researching and attempting an answer, your 4 differing definitions prove my point. You wrote "The fourth definition interestingly only uses the word knowledge and instead articulates observation and experimentation differently to the other three." The fourth definition is the only one that is technically correct. I applaud you for at least finding a proper definition - and for acknowledging the "interesting" difference between it and the other three, which are NOT the proper definitions of science, are misleading and serve to confuse and distort the TRUE purpose of science. So let's get to the brass tacks - what is science? Science is nothing more than the pursuit of knowledge. That is its absolute correct meaning. Anything more is a distortion - an intentional distortion. As for the two methods and your Googling, you received and posted the exact result I believed you would. "I am confused what 'two ways' science operates unless you mean theoretical and practical but there is a scientific method which is taught in many school curriculum if not all." You were meant to be confused. You were intentionally led SOLELY to only one of the two methods because it's the only method the High Priests promote. The other method, equally important, is hidden from the masses or is articulated in such a way as to distort, confuse and mislead. Let's go back to the meaning of science = the pursuit of knowledge. Why two methods? Because there are two DISTINCT types of knowledge and this is where the High Priests get nervous. The two types of knowledge are: 1. Truth 2. Validity Thus, being that there are TWO types of knowledge, there are therefore two methods - a specific method for determining each type of knowledge. 1. TRUTH or FACT is a type of scientific knowledge determined by applying empiricality. Truth or facts are verified by observation and experimentation. The scientific method is an adequate methodology used in determining empirical data, also known as a posteriori knowledge. And the other type of knowledge - the one that the gatekeepers keep muddled and confused - is valid knowledge. also known as a priori knowledge. 2. VALIDITY is a classification for a type of knowledge determined through logic and forensics. Knowledge deemed valid or rational is always taken on faith, and not blind faith but an article of faith based on a rational trust and confidence in its validity. Logic and classical reasoning are not taught seriously anymore and have largely been relegated to philosophical pursuits. Yet valid knowledge is as important to the pursuit of science as is empirical knowledge. If we aren't taught how to rationalize then we will cease being rational people and will be gullible to any sophistry to come along that tickles our ears. Welcome to the dawn of the New Dark Age where magic is indiscernible from science. Lastly, everything we believe we do so by faith or trust. But if we are being 'scientific' we should all be taught and easily know which of our beliefs are true and which are merely valid. By only stressing a single knowledge called modern science the vast majority of educated people are incapable of differentiating empirical truths from mere hypothesis nor are they capable of determining whether what they are told is fact is in fact a fact. Thus the High Priests are now free to promote a philosophical paradigm not grounded in objective science as being scientific and simultaneously have the power to deny paradigms that conflicts with their dogmas and beliefs. Want proof? Does black matter exist? https://en.wikipedia.org...