What is the difference between the two? No where else did the scientific method develop this process. Play can produce surprising results and methodologies stagnates development.

> What is the difference between the two?

There isn't.

Referring to experimentation as "playing with" feels like a attempt to demean the output.

Only if you think there's something wrong with play.

Sometimes it's best to interpret things in a neutral way. A negative point of view hampers insight. I think the output speaks for itself and doesn't need a defense.

"playing around with" sounds more dignified.

I don't perceive the difference. "working with fire" maybe different but I'm still fine with my word choice.

"Remember kids, the only difference between screwing around and science is writing it down" - Adam Savage