How and why in microbial ecology: an appeal for scientific aims, questions, hypotheses and theories

This article precedes a series of articles on the important questions, hypotheses and theories in microbial ecology. It considers why, as scientists, we ask questions and propose hypotheses and what makes them important, good or significant. Emphasis is placed on ‘scientific’ questions, the need for scientific aims and on possible reasons for, and inadequacy of aim-less studies and question free studies. Current global issues surrounding the climate crisis, pandemics and antibiotic resistance focus attention on science and scientists. They exemplify the urgent need for greater understanding of the interactions between microbes and their biological and physicochemical environments, that is, of microbial ecology. They also provide examples of reaction against science and scientists and highlight why we must be clear regarding what defines (good) science, its power and limitations, and ensure that this is communicated to stakeholders and the general public.