Difference between revisions of "Theory"
Jump to navigation
Jump to search
(A theory is a metascientific elaboration, distinct from the results of observation but consistent with them) |
(Copyedits, formatting, etc.) |
||
| Line 1: | Line 1: | ||
A '''theory''' is an explanation of facts. | A '''theory''' is an explanation of facts. | ||
| − | + | Pope [[John Paul II]] wrote: | |
| − | + | {{QuoteBox|A theory is a metascientific elaboration, distinct from the results of observation but consistent with them. By means of it a series of independent data and facts can be related and interpreted in a unified explanation. A theory's validity depends on whether or not it can be verified, it is constantly tested against the facts; wherever it can no longer explain the latter, it shows its limitations and unsuitability. It must then be rethought. <ref>Pope John Paul II, [http://www.cin.org/jp2evolu.html Message to Pontifical Academy of Sciences] October 22, 1996.</ref>}} | |
The term "theory" is often used outside of the realm of [[natural science]], such as in [[music theory]], [[number theory]], or [[Marxist theory]]. | The term "theory" is often used outside of the realm of [[natural science]], such as in [[music theory]], [[number theory]], or [[Marxist theory]]. | ||
| + | |||
| + | == References == | ||
| + | {{reflist}} | ||
==See also== | ==See also== | ||
Revision as of 00:31, January 2, 2008
A theory is an explanation of facts.
Pope John Paul II wrote:
A theory is a metascientific elaboration, distinct from the results of observation but consistent with them. By means of it a series of independent data and facts can be related and interpreted in a unified explanation. A theory's validity depends on whether or not it can be verified, it is constantly tested against the facts; wherever it can no longer explain the latter, it shows its limitations and unsuitability. It must then be rethought. [1]
The term "theory" is often used outside of the realm of natural science, such as in music theory, number theory, or Marxist theory.
References
- ↑ Pope John Paul II, Message to Pontifical Academy of Sciences October 22, 1996.