Pern, it allows the possibility of poorly thought out hypothesis' to be tested because of the ease and lack of consequences involved in applying bio and/or chemical composites becomes negligable. For instance, take shuttle tests. In our last orbital mission, I believe they were testing to see how various insects would be affected a by significantly lessened gravitational environment. That is not a hypothesis, but it is reflective of how the scientific process is undertaken in todays world.
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2003/...in537344.shtml