Defining 'theory'

Unfortunately, the editor is unaware that the word "theory" used in the scientific community does not hold the same meaning as in layman's terms. Here is the definition of the science word "theory":

The popular use and scientific use of the term "theory" are very different. A scientific theory, resulting from the application of the scientific method, is an explanation for a phenomenon or set of phenomena based on extensive evidence and testing. The scientific method is a wellrecognized and well-defined series of steps used to acquire an explanation for observed phenomena.

A preliminary generalization, or hypothesis, is formed on the basis of careful observation of the phenomenon being studied. This hypothesis is then tested by further observations and experiments.

If the information gathered from observations and experiments over time satisfies the conditions of the hypothesis, the hypothesis eventually becomes accepted as a scientific theory.

For example, the atomic theory of matter states that matter is composed of particles called atoms in various arrangements.

The theory of evolution is the only explanation for the origin of life that accounts for the fossil, anatomical, molecular (including genetic), behavioral and geological evidence. Although they continue to argue over the details of exactly how the various mechanisms of evolution operate, biologists long ago concluded that evolution happens. This is because evolution explains all of the evidence far better than all other proposed explanations for the origin of life.

Hence we have the theory of gravity, atomic theory and relativity. None of those are conjectures or speculation but facts . . . creationism is not based on anything but the Bible, which also states the Earth is flat and the sun rotates around the Earth. George Pohoski Camarillo