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''Main article:'' [[Scientific evidence]]

''Main article:'' [[Scientific evidence]]

Unlike the [[theorem]]s of [[mathematics]], [[science]] does not seek to prove that its [[theories]] are true. Instead, the [[scientific method]] seeks to check whether the predictions implied by a theory are observed in nature. Therefore, as philosopher of science [[Karl Popper]] argued, science can only hope to show that a theory is false. But scientists recognize that science ''can never prove'' that a theory is true in the same sense that a mathematical theorem is true. Therefore scientists never claim that their theories are [[fact]]s. Instead, science searches for theories that are not disproved by currently-known experimental observations. Insofar as theories are consistent with nature, they may serve as a guide to improve [[technology]] for example and can be considered as true in laymen's terms.

Unlike the [[theorem]]s of [[mathematics]], [[science]] does not seek to prove that its [[theories]] are true. Instead, the [[scientific method]] seeks to check whether the predictions implied by a theory are observed in nature. Therefore, as philosopher of science [[Karl Popper]] argued, science can only hope to show that a theory is false. But scientists recognize that science ''can never prove'' that a theory is true in the same sense that a mathematical theorem is true. Therefore, scientists never claim that their theories are [[fact]]s. Instead, science searches for theories that are not disproved by currently-known experimental observations. Insofar as theories are consistent with nature, they may serve as a guide to improve [[technology]] for example and can be considered as true in laymen's terms.

A notable exception may be found in the field of biology, where educators and other proponents frequently contend that, "Evolution is a fact."

A notable exception may be found in the field of biology, where educators and other proponents frequently contend that, "Evolution is a fact."