Introduction
Frederick Winslow Taylor, known as the father of scientific management, proposed several principles that aimed to improve efficiency and productivity in the workplace. One of these principles is "Science, not rule of thumb." This principle emphasizes the importance of using scientific methods and data to make decisions and solve problems instead of relying on personal judgment or experience.

Explanation
When factory owners or managers rely on their personal judgment in attending problems they confront in the course of managing their work, they are not utilizing scientific methods or data to guide their decision-making. Instead, they are relying on their own subjective opinions or past experiences, which may not always lead to the most effective or efficient solutions.

By following the principle of "Science, not rule of thumb," factory owners or managers are encouraged to approach problem-solving in a systematic and objective manner. This involves gathering relevant data, conducting experiments or studies, and using scientific methods to analyze and interpret the information. By doing so, they can make informed decisions based on evidence rather than subjective opinions.

Benefits of the principle
There are several benefits of applying the principle of "Science, not rule of thumb" in managing a factory or workplace:

1. Accuracy: Scientific methods provide a more accurate and reliable way of understanding and solving problems, as they are based on empirical evidence and rigorous analysis.

2. Efficiency: By using scientific methods, managers can identify the most efficient ways to perform tasks, allocate resources, and streamline processes, leading to improved productivity and reduced waste.

3. Objectivity: Personal judgment can be biased and influenced by individual preferences or emotions. In contrast, scientific methods promote objectivity and minimize the impact of personal biases, leading to fair and impartial decision-making.

4. Continuous improvement: By applying scientific principles, managers can continuously analyze and evaluate their processes and practices, identifying areas for improvement and implementing changes based on data-driven insights.

5. Standardization: Scientific methods help establish standardized procedures and protocols, ensuring consistency and quality in the workplace. This reduces variability and increases predictability, leading to better outcomes.

Conclusion
The principle of "Science, not rule of thumb" advocated by Frederick Winslow Taylor encourages factory owners and managers to base their decision-making on scientific methods and data rather than personal judgment. By doing so, they can achieve greater accuracy, efficiency, objectivity, and continuous improvement in their work, ultimately leading to increased productivity and prosperity.