Reintroducing “why” into scientific practice with clarity, care and community connection

Scientific inquiry often begins with “how.” But when it forgets to ask “why,” it risks losing its ethical compass, emotional resonance and relational depth. This framework invites researchers, educators and students to pause, reflect and reshape their practice through disabled-led insight and interdisciplinary care.

Begin with the Question Beneath the Question

Scientific questions often focus on mechanisms and measurement. Let’s begin by asking what deeper motivations, values or relationships lie beneath.

Reflection checklist

• I’ve reflected on why this research matters to me
• I’ve considered who it serves, and who it might overlook
• I’ve acknowledged the emotional and ethical weight of my inquiry

Fill in the blanks
I’m asking this question because
It matters because

When science forgets to ask “why,” it can become extractive, disconnected or harmful. Let’s explore what’s at stake.

What might change if every scientific question began not with “how,” but with “why”, and stayed there long enough to listen?

Explore more with us:

• Read our Informal Blog for relaxed insights
• Discover Deconvolution and see what’s happening
• Visit Gwenin for a curated selection of frameworks
• Browse Spiralmore collections