One Answer

  1. Evolution is a fact. The theory of evolution is a theory. A well-proven theory.

    It should be understood that the words “theory” and “fact” in scientific discourse do not mean exactly the same thing as in ordinary speech.

    For the layman, these concepts are opposed. There is a fact that means a solid truth and there is a theory that means a variety of fantasies on the subject.

    In the scientific lexicon, a fact is a statement about a state of affairs that is conventionally generally accepted. We all recognize that rocks fall to the ground when you let go of them.�

    A theory is a set of assumptions that connect many facts together and explain them. Facts don't make sense at all outside of theory. Theory allows you to reason about them, compare them, and analyze them. A theory, in turn, can be proven or disproved, plausible or improbable.

    A simple example is when you enter your office in the morning. Everyone can see that, it's a fact. This fact needs to be explained. How did you get here? The theory that you left your home, took public transport or your car, and drove to work sounds convincing and is tested if necessary. The theory that you were brought here by aliens sounds dubious.

    The theory of evolution is just a theory. It is just the only theory that binds together a huge body of facts from biology, giving them a convincing and verifiable explanation.

Leave a Reply