- #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
AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the validity and usefulness of theories that only explain a small portion of a phenomenon, specifically questioning whether a theory that describes just 5% can still be considered valid. It is argued that if the part described has practical applications, then the theory holds value. Current laws of physics are highlighted as being effective for everyday phenomena, despite not explaining the entirety of the universe. However, the conversation emphasizes that a theory's usefulness is not solely based on its descriptive accuracy; it must also have predictive capabilities to be deemed valuable.
- #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
- 3,237
- 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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