just a theory
A phrase often used by science deniers, usually against the scientific theory of evolution. It implies that a "theory" is just an unproven "guess", therefore evolution is an unproved lie. This stems from a fundamental misunderstanding of the word "theory" in the context of science.
In colloquial use, a 'theory' may mean a "guess", but in Science, a 'theory' is defined as "a well-substantiated explanation of an aspect of the natural world." Therefore the phrase "Evolution is just a theory" makes no sense.
In colloquial use, a 'theory' may mean a "guess", but in Science, a 'theory' is defined as "a well-substantiated explanation of an aspect of the natural world." Therefore the phrase "Evolution is just a theory" makes no sense.
A: Evolution is just a theory!
B: Yes, it is. It's a scientific theory that is supported by the best available evidence. Cell theory is a theory too, do you deny that we are made of cells? And gravity is a theory too, do you jump off of bridges?
B: Yes, it is. It's a scientific theory that is supported by the best available evidence. Cell theory is a theory too, do you deny that we are made of cells? And gravity is a theory too, do you jump off of bridges?
just a theory by ben-mactavish August 16, 2022
