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→Common usage
== Common usage ==
== Common usage ==
Evolutionists frequently argue that the word "theory" means very different things to scientists and non-scientists. For example, a PBS TV show says: <ref>http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/evolution/library/11/2/e_s_1.html</ref>
Evolutionists frequently argue that the word "theory" means very different things to scientists and non-scientists. For example, a PBS TV show says: <ref>http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/evolution/library/11/2/e_s_1.html</ref>
:''When we use the word "theory" in everyday life, we usually mean an idea or a guess, but the word has a much different meaning in science. In science, a theory is something that ties together facts. For example, an apple dropping to the ground when you let go of it is a fact. From this we can draw the conclusion that there is a force pullin it down. This theory is called the theory of gravity. A scientific theory is therefor a logical explanation made on basis of all the available facts. This video examines the vocabulary essential for understanding the nature of science and evolution and illustrates how evolution is a powerful, well-supported scientific explanation for the relatedness of all life.''
:''When we use the word "theory" in everyday life, we usually mean an idea or a guess, but the word has a much different meaning in science. This video examines the vocabulary essential for understanding the nature of science and evolution and illustrates how evolution is a powerful, well-supported scientific explanation for the relatedness of all life.''
The American Museum of Natural History exhibit on Darwin says: <ref>http://www.amnh.org/exhibitions/darwin/evolution/theory.php</ref>
The American Museum of Natural History exhibit on Darwin says: <ref>http://www.amnh.org/exhibitions/darwin/evolution/theory.php</ref>
:''In everyday use, the word "theory" often means an untested hunch, or a guess without supporting evidence. But for scientists, a theory has nearly the opposite meaning. A theory is a well-substantiated explanation of an aspect of the natural world that can incorporate laws, hypotheses and facts.''
:''In everyday use, the word "theory" often means an untested hunch, or a guess without supporting evidence. But for scientists, a theory has nearly the opposite meaning. A theory is a well-substantiated explanation of an aspect of the natural world that can incorporate laws, hypotheses and facts.''
In science, a theory is something that ties together facts. For example, an apple dropping to the ground when you let go of it is a fact. From this we can draw the conclusion that there is a force pullin it down. This theory is called the theory of gravity. A scientific theory is therefor a logical explanation made on basis of all the available facts.
In fact, it is hard to find anyone who makes this distinction, outside those who are promoting the theory of evolution to the general public.
In fact, it is hard to find anyone who makes this distinction, outside those who are promoting the theory of evolution to the general public.