"Science Journal
Scientific Theory vs Law
David J Pfeiffer
David J Pfeiffer
Jan 30, 2017 · 7 min read
There is a common misconception that a scientific law is a more sound version of a scientific theory. This is largely due to the fact that the scientific definition of the word is different than the English definition. In this article we define both terms and compare the two definitions. We then apply these definitions to the definition of the scientific method. Finally, we use these definitions to argue that science is the best tool we have to understand the natural world.
English Definition of Theory
A popular online dictionary defines a theory as “a proposed explanation whose status is still conjectural and subject to experimentation, in contrast to well-established propositions that are regarded as reporting matters of actual fact.” This is an adequate definition for the word as commonly used in the English language. The fact that the theorist has not researched this theory or even backed it up with evidence does not change the fact that it is a theory in the sense of the English definition."
Well I will be damned. My misuse of terminology if extraordinary.
Anyway, all terminology aside I feel quite stuck to my point. Beyond some formulas on a chalkboard and some ideas about how fast light really goes and some further formulas written about some entirely hypothetical variables how confirmed are black holes?
I mean, have we thrown a cooked hot dog into one and it came out back in time uncooked? Or thrown a hot dog into one and its atoms were compressed into the size of an amaoeba or smaller? I mean, is it entirely possible they are not real altogether? Is it entirely possible we miscalculated the speed of light and the effects of gravity? Is it possible that swirling fire tornado deep in space we have a photo of is not a black hole?
To some people not believing in black holes is the same thing as not believing in god. Which is something people who believe in black holes seem to be entirely against.