Built on fact
A letter to the Editor
in the Raleigh, NC, News and Observer, 20 April 2005
by Michael Elvin of Fuquay-Varina, NC
An April 18 People's Forum letter-writer, addressing the evolution vs. creation issue, admonished us to "Check the dictionary for a definition of 'theory,' and then call me when you have proof and move this idea (evolution) from the theoretical to fact."
Too bad the letter-writer apparently never took a course outlining the scientific method. "Theories" are explanations; "facts" are observable data. An idea does not graduate from theory to become fact. Facts are building blocks that support theories. Gravity, for instance, is a theory still -- one that has stood the test of time. All observable facts are in agreement with the general theory of gravity.
Likewise with evolution, a mountain of observable facts support this theory, particularly DNA data. Whereas with creationism or intelligent design, what you have in support of those theories is a bit of scripture plus a great deal of conjecture.
Comments such as the letter-writer's underscore the need for solid scientific education in our schools.