- #1
jumpjack
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Can a theory which describes 5% of a phenomenon be considered "valid" or even useful?
Can a theory which describe 5% of a phenomenon
- Thread starter jumpjack
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In summary, the conversation discusses the validity and usefulness of a theory that only describes 5% of a phenomenon. It is argued that as long as the part it describes has a practical use, the theory can be considered valid. However, there is also a mention of the importance of a theory being able to predict something new in order to be truly useful. The example of our current laws of physics, which only describe a small percentage of the universe, is used to illustrate this point.
- #2
AJ Bentley
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If the part it describes has a practical use, yes.
(By-the-way, it's 'that' not 'which')
(By-the-way, it's 'that' not 'which')
- #3
Pengwuino
Gold Member
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Our laws of physics describes the stuff we see and use in our daily lives perfectly well and has been used exclusively for the past couple hundred years. Does that not seem useful?
- #4
jumpjack
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Thanks.
Actually current physics has a "practical use"... although it does not explain 95% of how Universe is made and works.
(Thanks also for grammar note. ;-) )
Actually current physics has a "practical use"... although it does not explain 95% of how Universe is made and works.
(Thanks also for grammar note. ;-) )
Last edited:
- #5
jumpjack
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Just locally.Pengwuino said:
- #6
Cyrus
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No, the usefulness of a theory is not in how well it describes something. Anything can be described to 98-99% accuracy, to be of any value it must be able to predict something new.
Related to Can a theory which describe 5% of a phenomenon
1. Can a theory accurately describe only 5% of a phenomenon?
No, a theory should be able to accurately explain the majority of a phenomenon, not just a small percentage. If a theory can only describe 5% of a phenomenon, it is likely an incomplete or flawed theory.
2. How can a theory only explain 5% of a phenomenon?
There are a few possible reasons for this. It could be that the data used to develop the theory was limited or biased, leading to an incomplete understanding of the phenomenon. It could also be that the theory is outdated or has not been thoroughly tested and refined.
3. Is a theory that describes 5% of a phenomenon still considered valid?
No, a theory should be able to accurately explain the majority of a phenomenon to be considered valid. A theory that can only describe 5% of a phenomenon may still have some value, but it would need to be further developed and tested to be considered a valid explanation.
4. Can a theory that describes 5% of a phenomenon be proven wrong?
Yes, a theory that only explains a small portion of a phenomenon can still be proven wrong. As new evidence and data are collected, it may become clear that the theory is incomplete or incorrect. This is why theories are constantly tested and revised in the scientific community.
5. How can we improve a theory that only describes 5% of a phenomenon?
To improve a theory that only explains a small portion of a phenomenon, scientists can gather more data and evidence, refine their methods and techniques, and collaborate with other researchers to gain new perspectives. It may also be necessary to revise or completely change the theory to better fit the available evidence.
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