Difference between revisions of "Theory"
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A '''theory''' is an explanation of facts: "A [[model]] or [[framework]] (made up of a body of [[principle]]s) to explain phenomena." [http://www.economyprofessor.com/economictheories/aa-theory.php] | A '''theory''' is an explanation of facts: "A [[model]] or [[framework]] (made up of a body of [[principle]]s) to explain phenomena." [http://www.economyprofessor.com/economictheories/aa-theory.php] | ||
| − | Pope [[John Paul II]] wrote: | + | In a context of biological [[evolution]], 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>}} | {{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>}} | ||
Revision as of 18:12, October 30, 2010
A theory is an explanation of facts: "A model or framework (made up of a body of principles) to explain phenomena." [1]
In a context of biological evolution, 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.