I wouldn't say amateur science is frowned upon, more than a lack of proper foundation can lead you astray pretty quickly, which is why most "amateurs" manage to

I wouldn't say amateur science is frowned upon, more than a lack of proper foundation can lead you astray pretty quickly, which is why most "amateurs" manage to convince themselves of some big metaphysical truth. The learning of science is heavily encouraged, but it should definitely be done through proper means.