Originally Posted by toretorden

Actually, gravitation as explained scientifically is also a theory, the theory of gravity. You're basically right in your terminology, a scientific theory describes a phenomena (like gravity or evolution) and is backed up empirically, typically by several scientific publications proving various hypotheses that fall under that theory.

Hypotheses are what scientists often work with, for example I have a hypothesis that a species of mite can be carried with wind. I can set up an experiment and test that hypothesis against an opposing hypothesis saying that species of mites can not be carried with wind. Evidence for one is automatically evidence against the other.

By setting up experiments and collecting statistical data, I can prove by a 95% confidence interval that yes, the mite can be transported by wind or - that it can't. Much of established science is backed up by such testing and the 95% confidence interval is usually the lowest level of significance accepted in the scientific community. In other words, the probability of your claim being true should at least be 95%.


Theories do change over time as they accumulate knowledge. For example we can learn something new about gravitation and that can become part of the theory. Some old parts of it might be proven wrong etc.

Originally Posted by WhateverDude

Laser beams, psychedelic hats, and for some reason kittens. Surrel reminds me of kittens.