Statistical inference is the most common inference of choice, but has little to do with reality.
Even worst was the null hypothesis, it probably set Science back further than statistical inference.
The definition of the term "Scientific Method" includes a section on the frequent use of EMPIRICAL Testing of an hypothesis.
Empirical is a tough one for scientists to accept, as it requires that Science be tested without using Science.
Empirical testing is based on experience and observation: scary stuff for the "house-of-cards," statistical-inference, "scientists" of today.