Physics

» SassyLady1111 - the problem

Katharine,

If I remember my science lessons. Theory is not a fact. It contains some facts that make up the theory. You make it sound like a theory is a fact. It is not. There have been theories that have been proven wrong.

Here is the definition of theory:
n. pl. the·o·ries
1. A set of statements or principles devised to explain a group of facts or phenomena, especially one that has been repeatedly tested or is widely accepted and can be used to make predictions about natural phenomena.
2. The branch of a science or art consisting of its explanatory statements, accepted principles, and methods of analysis, as opposed to practice: a fine musician who had never studied theory.
3. A set of theorems that constitute a systematic view of a branch of mathematics.
4. Abstract reasoning; speculation: a decision based on experience rather than theory.
5. A belief or principle that guides action or assists comprehension or judgment: staked out the house on the theory that criminals usually return to the scene of the crime.
6. An assumption based on limited information or knowledge; a conjecture.

Note that the dictionary says that theory is a speculation. You stated that definition belonged to hypotheses. Now for the definition of Hypotheses.

hy·poth·e·ses (-sz)
1. A tentative explanation for an observation, phenomenon, or scientific problem that can be tested by further investigation.
2. Something taken to be true for the purpose of argument or investigation; an assumption.
3. The antecedent of a conditional statement.

There is no reason for the science community to hotly argue the definition. The dictionary spells it out. If what you say is true that the definition is argued among scientists, could only be for one reason, because the scientists who are arguing it want their theory taken as fact. Either it is a fact, a theory, or a hypothesis.

With this in mind, how can we take anything you have to say serious. It is false statements like yours that lead too many people to believe something to be a fact, when in essence it is a speculation.

How disappointing it is when a person assumes a theory is fact and then that theory is proven to be wrong years later.

We must be sure to choose our words wisely as to not mislead others.

-- posted by SassyLady1111