- #1
jumpjack
- 223
- 3
Can a theory which describes 5% of a phenomenon be considered "valid" or even useful?
Can a theory which describe 5% of a phenomenon
- Thread starter jumpjack
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- Phenomenon Theory
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Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the validity and usefulness of a theory that only describes a small portion (5%) of a phenomenon. Participants explore the implications of partial descriptions in the context of scientific theories and their practical applications.
Discussion Character
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- Some participants suggest that if the part described by a theory has practical use, then the theory can be considered valid and useful.
- Others argue that the laws of physics have been effective in describing observable phenomena in daily life, implying that this utility supports their validity despite not explaining the entirety of the universe.
- A later reply emphasizes that the value of a theory should not solely be based on its descriptive power but rather on its ability to make new predictions.
- One participant notes that while current physics has practical applications, it does not account for 95% of the universe's workings.
- Another participant reiterates the effectiveness of physical laws in local contexts, suggesting a limitation in their broader applicability.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing views on the criteria for a theory's validity and usefulness, indicating that the discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing perspectives.
Contextual Notes
There are assumptions regarding what constitutes "usefulness" and "validity" in scientific theories, which are not fully explored. The discussion also reflects varying interpretations of the implications of partial descriptions in scientific models.
- #2
AJ Bentley
- 667
- 0
If the part it describes has a practical use, yes.
(By-the-way, it's 'that' not 'which')
(By-the-way, it's 'that' not 'which')
- #3
Pengwuino
Gold Member
- 5,112
- 20
Our laws of physics describes the stuff we see and use in our daily lives perfectly well and has been used exclusively for the past couple hundred years. Does that not seem useful?
- #4
jumpjack
- 223
- 3
Thanks.
Actually current physics has a "practical use"... although it does not explain 95% of how Universe is made and works.
(Thanks also for grammar note. ;-) )
Actually current physics has a "practical use"... although it does not explain 95% of how Universe is made and works.
(Thanks also for grammar note. ;-) )
Last edited:
- #5
jumpjack
- 223
- 3
Just locally.Pengwuino said:
- #6
Cyrus
- 3,246
- 17
No, the usefulness of a theory is not in how well it describes something. Anything can be described to 98-99% accuracy, to be of any value it must be able to predict something new.
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