Scientific Theory For Dummies

I'm sure there are a lot of threads on the nature of science, scientific theory, scientific inquiry, etc. But after years of discussing these things, there are still long time members that show little understanding of how scientific theory works.The frustration doesn't end in this forum. Out there, scientists like Shermer and Dawkins who have taken upon themselves to educate the public also run into the same frustration that we do here. The general attitude seems to be that people are too ignorant to understand how science works or that they are too attached to their religious beliefs.People tend to get caught up with scientific jargon. Everytime someone asks something about science, he gets hit by long montrous posts. I'm a reading addict (I read several books a week) and even I get a headache looking through those posts.I started this thread with some hope that we could explain what a scientific theory is without bringing out the jargon. The purpose of this thread isn't to discuss how we should explain science to dummies. The point is for us to discuss what a scientific theory is in a language simple enough that can't be obfuscated by dummies. I've chosen specifically the topic of scientific theory because after years of discussing these issues I've noticed that most people out there don't have a first clue what scientific theory is. Most seem to think it's comparable to religious doctrine.If this PT goes through, I'll start by explaining what scientific models are and their unrelatedness to doctrine.Edited by Taz, : No reason given.

Hi Taz,I can see where you're going, but could you rewrite para 3 to be more generic, maybe say something along the lines of a sledge hammer not being the right tool to pound a nail because you'll just end up with holes in the wall.You've also got two different topics. I'm a big believer in focus and brevity in discussion threads whenever possible, with the highest priority on making sure the key point or points are addressed, but the tactical errors of the science side is one topic, while clearly describing theory and the scientific process is another. I can see the topics are related, but could you draw them closer together, maybe by saying you want to use explaining science as an exercise for exploring what are the good and bad ways to explain something complicated.

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--	Percy
	EvC Forum Director

I'll get back to you later this afternoon. Go to church now.

I edited it. Added by edit.

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I just noticed that I am now as popular as Admin. Woohoo!Edited by Taz, : No reason given.Edited by Taz, : No reason given.

Thread copied to the Scientific Theory For Dummies thread in the Is It Science? forum, this copy of the thread has been closed.