There's a common misconception about the word "theory" in science. When you hear, "Evolution is just a theory," remember, in science, a theory isn't a guess or hunch, but a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world.⬇️1/6
Let's break down the difference between "fact", "law", and "theory" in science. A "fact" is an observation that's been repeatedly confirmed. It's a fact that an apple falls to the ground when dropped.⬇️2/6
A "law" in science describes an observed regularity, often mathematically, but doesn't explain it. Like Newton's law of universal gravitation describes the attraction between objects with mass, but it doesn't explain why the attraction occurs.⬇️3/6
Now, a "theory" is a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world, based on evidence & validated through testing. Theories aim to explain why phenomena occur, like why the apple falls to the ground. Einstein explained gravity with his theory of relativity⬇️4
When we say "Theory of Evolution", it's not a speculative guess. It's a robust explanation built on a body of evidence that explains the diversity and complexity of life on Earth. It explains the 'why' behind the fact of evolution.⬇️5/6
So, in science, a theory is as close to a fact as anything can be, always open to further testing & revision with new evidence. Next time you hear "just a theory", remember its true meaning in science. 6/6
I just wanted to try and clear some things up. There is definitely some miscommunication between the scientific community and the general public when it comes to these matters. I cringe every time I read "just a theory" as if it were just made up and based on nothing.
As for evolution, that will require several posts. At the very least: One on mutation, one on natural selection, another on how we define a species, the time scales involved etc. 🐵
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