Theory Defined

Jan 30, 02:24 PM

In science a "theory'' is a consistent explanatory model which helps the scientific community develop its research.

A "theory'' is not a step below a "law'' or some sort of inspired "guess''.

Examples are atomic theory, quantum theory, Einstein's theory of relativity. They are not waiting until someone takes them into a courtroom to graduate to a "fact''. As theories, they provide a comprehensive way of explaining natural phenomena.

So too is the theory of evolution. It is the central explanatory model for modern biological science. Without it there would be no way to link genetics, cell development, the adaptation of species, and many other facets of biology.

The mechanisms of all those theories are under constant scrutiny, being refined and developed as the natural world reveals its mysteries, but they do not alter the fundamental form of each theory.

Undermining the language by misdefining terminology serves only to confuse the general public who get a poor serve from much news media reporting of scientific issues by lazy reporters who want a quick controversy rather than to present in-depth analysis.

ALISTAIR McBRIDE

Hamilton

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(c) 2008 Waikato Times. Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning. All rights Reserved. Theory Defined
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