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which is well-confirmed, and the idea that there existed a universal common ancestor for all
which is well-confirmed, and the idea that there existed a universal common ancestor for all
life on Earth, which remains controversial. {{fact}}
life on Earth, which remains controversial. {{fact}}
== 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>
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>
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 fact, it is hard to find anyone who makes this distinction, outside those who are promoting the theory of evolution to the general public.
==Notes and references==
==Notes and references==