Post by Humanist on May 10, 2012 19:54:21 GMT -5
Hello all,
I have a question concerning the word theory. In general, I understand the difference between the colloquial use of the word theory(which is conjecture and/or guess), and scientific theory(which is explanation based on observation, experimentation, and reasoning, especially one that has been tested and confirmed as a general principle helping to explain and predict natural phenomena.) used in the realm of science.
Why in the science community do they name an untested hypothesis "theory" such as, string theory? or quantum Loop theory?
Why do we put those theories in the same status as theory of evolution or theory of general relativity, since those have been tested and confirmed? Does the word theory in string theory means guess or conjecture?
Any help will be appreciated
Thanks
I have a question concerning the word theory. In general, I understand the difference between the colloquial use of the word theory(which is conjecture and/or guess), and scientific theory(which is explanation based on observation, experimentation, and reasoning, especially one that has been tested and confirmed as a general principle helping to explain and predict natural phenomena.) used in the realm of science.
Why in the science community do they name an untested hypothesis "theory" such as, string theory? or quantum Loop theory?
Why do we put those theories in the same status as theory of evolution or theory of general relativity, since those have been tested and confirmed? Does the word theory in string theory means guess or conjecture?
Any help will be appreciated
Thanks