11 Nov 10
Originally posted by galveston75There are many things I would like to change about the English language and its use and many words with double or more meanings depending on context. The word "theory" is misleading initially but with explanation as to how it is used in science, using it then in the correct manner is about all you can do. Its impossible to ban words and usage really.
Why is the term "Theory" still used in all books, magzines, web site, etc. If it's a fact then discard that term. Don't ya think?
A theory is not equivalent to a fact. A theory is a set of propositions that seek to fit all known facts together. The problem comes when those facts are dismissed. If you have a viable intelligent theory that fits the facts better together than what is on offer, most scientists would look closely at it, but if you deny clear facts the resultant theory is poor and entitled to be dismissed.
Theories are revised and improved as more facts come to light.
It does not simply mean a guess. Guess usually implies out of the blue, random, have a go at an answer and "your guess is as good as mine". There is a whole body of clear facts over various scientific disciplines that support the Evolutionary Theory, a theory that has been modified in the light of further factual discovery but the main tenets of the theory have never had other facts come to light to raise doubt about its central correctness. You may of course contest certain conclusions validly here and there, with evidence, but finding one or two errors does not invalidate the whole body of other facts and the main body of the theory.
I have my own slant on it and that is I believe that an original Awareness or Consciousness inherent in existence (difficult to prove scientifically) played an important part in evolution, but that's another discussion.
Darwin is deserving of the fullest honoring.
11 Nov 10
Originally posted by TaomanEdit: "I have my own slant on it and that is I believe that an original Awareness or Consciousness inherent in existence"
There are many things I would like to change about the English language and its use and many words with double or more meanings depending on context. The word "theory" is misleading initially but with explanation as to how it is used in science, using it then in the correct manner is about all you can do. Its impossible to ban words and usage really.
A th ...[text shortened]... evolution, but that's another discussion.
Darwin is deserving of the fullest honoring.
Beyond clear light, what?
😵
11 Nov 10
Originally posted by divegeesterActually evolution (with a small e) is almost true by definition. Every generation in sexually reproducing organisms has a different set of DNA from the previous one and hence has evolved by definition.
So what is natural selection then...?
Evolution (with a small e) is absolute definite concrete fact. The 'origins of life' is a different claim.
Again, understanding a word and its meanings in various contexts is essential.
11 Nov 10
Originally posted by robbie carrobieThe value of that Jewel is bigger than the value of a drop of the water when you are in the desert, because that Jewel could either keep you away from the desert or drive you from oasis to oasis straight to your desired destination once you decide to cross the desert😵
indeed what is the vale of a jewel in the desert when what you need is a drop of water, or the value of a drop of water when you live in the west of Scotland!