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? asked in Science & MathematicsOther - Science · 6 years ago

Is it time for scientists to adapt to modern terminology?

Because the public sphere has hijacked and misused the term "theory" as if it means nothing more that a guess we have ended up with crazy people telling us things like evolution or gravity are "just a theory."

So should we adjust to the modern lexicon and find a new way to refer to scientific theories that have withstood the test of time and are supported by a preponderance of the evidence?

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  • Bob B
    Lv 7
    6 years ago
    Favorite Answer

    It probably wouldn't do much- anyone who knows any science already knows the terminology. If we changed it, to, say, the law of evolution, they'd just start saying the law was wrong.

  • silver d
    Lv 7
    6 years ago

    The word "Theory" is modern terminology; it's not the scientists' fault that the public at large is uneducated. The terminology shouldn't be changed to suit the ignorant few who refuse to get with the times.

  • Kano
    Lv 7
    6 years ago

    Accepted theory is confirmation and will stand until someone comes up with something different.

    Nothing in science is 100% proved, science does not work like that.

  • charcinders
    Lv 7
    6 years ago

    Changing the terminology will not make the crazy people any less crazy.

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