Willowz said:Quick question.
How do you call an established scientific theory? A fact? A truth? Or there need not be any further description than "established scientific theory"?
Well, evolution is a theory. It is also a fact. And facts and theories are different things, not rungs in a hierarchy of increasing certainty. Facts are the world's data. Theories are structures of ideas that explain and interpret facts. Facts do not go away when scientists debate rival theories to explain them. Einstein's theory of gravitation replaced Newton's, but apples did not suspend themselves in mid-air, pending the outcome. And humans evolved from apelike ancestors whether they did so by Darwin's proposed mechanism or by some other, yet to be discovered.
A scientific truth refers to a fact that has been repeatedly tested and proven to be true through experiments and observations. On the other hand, a scientific theory is an explanation that is supported by a large body of evidence and has not been disproven, but may still be subject to change or refinement as new evidence or information is discovered.
Scientists use the scientific method to ensure the reliability of their findings. This involves making observations, forming a hypothesis, designing and conducting experiments, analyzing data, and drawing conclusions. The results of these experiments are then peer-reviewed and replicated by other scientists to ensure accuracy and reliability.
Statistics play a crucial role in analyzing and interpreting scientific data. They help scientists determine the significance of their results and whether they support their hypothesis or not. By using statistical methods, scientists can also identify any potential errors or biases in their data and make more accurate conclusions.
Yes, scientific findings can change over time. As new evidence is discovered or technology advances, previous theories and explanations may be modified or replaced. This is the nature of science, as it is constantly seeking to improve and refine our understanding of the natural world.
Scientists strive to be objective by following the scientific method and using empirical evidence to support their findings. They also use peer-review processes to ensure that their work is unbiased and meets the standards of the scientific community. Additionally, scientists are trained to recognize and avoid personal biases that may influence their research and conclusions.