Final answer:
The difference between natural science and humanistic inquiry lies in their focus and methods. Natural science studies the physical world through observation and experimentation, while humanistic inquiry explores human experiences and cultures through interpretation and analysis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Natural science and humanistic inquiry are two different approaches to understanding the world around us.
Natural science focuses on studying the physical world and its phenomena through observation, experimentation, and logical reasoning. It includes fields such as astronomy, biology, chemistry, and physics. Natural scientists use the scientific method to formulate theories and laws based on empirical evidence.
On the other hand, humanistic inquiry is concerned with studying human experiences, behaviors, and cultures. It includes disciplines like history, literature, philosophy, and anthropology. Humanistic inquiry uses qualitative assessments and methods such as interpretation, analysis, and critical thinking to gain insights into the human condition.