I think it is inappropriate to talk about "the" scientific method, because there are many scientific methods, different for different disciplines. What Popper, and other logical empiricists claimed was that observation of coincident facts, no matter how many, is nor way to proceed in science, i.e. that induction alone does not work as corroboration of anything. Logical empiricism concerns checking scientific theories, and refuting if necessary, and says nothing about the ways arrive at them. Even simple induction might work if the result stands the test. As will free speculation, like in the case of Newton, provided its empirical generalizations (such as Kepler's laws) stand the test.

Tönu (who knew Popper)

Dear Mohamed

Scientific method is the set of basic rules that must be followed for the production of knowledge that have the rigor of science , ie , it is a method used for the research and proof of a particular content . The scientific method begins on systematic observation of facts , followed by conducting experiments , the logical deduction and scientific evidence of results. The scientific method is the logic applied to science . It is a careful work , which follows a systematic way , in search of answers to the issues studied . The scientific method is the tool of the researcher, at the end of your research process , explains and predicts a set of instances from the application of his theories . A scientific paper is the result of a study conducted and proven through the scientific method . The scientific method is a way to prove the veracity of some discredited thesis by skepticism . In contrast to the scientific method , is the empirical method, which is based solely on experience, no scientific process