What does "methodological naturalism" specifically pertain to in scientific approaches?

Methodological naturalism refers primarily to the practice of relying solely on naturalistic explanations when investigating and understanding phenomena in the natural world. This framework focuses on the idea that scientific inquiry should be grounded in observable, testable, and repeatable methods, which align with how the scientific method operates. By applying only naturalistic explanations, researchers ensure that their work remains within the realm of scientific investigation, thus adhering to the principles that define the discipline.

This approach does not extend beyond the natural world to consider supernatural influences; rather, it intentionally sets those aside to maintain objectivity and focus on what can be empirically measured and evaluated. Therefore, the emphasis is placed on natural processes and laws, creating a systematic way to explore questions without invoking non-natural elements or explanations.