Posted by Orion (64.107.168.75) on January 14, 2002 at 07:13:38:
In Reply to: To prove or disprove, Is that whats the skeptic's and scientist's objective is? posted by Vidimagic on January 13, 2002 at 18:47:20:
Clarification, Friend Vidimagic: Scientists DO NOT attempt to "prove or disprove" anything. They attempt to TEST hypotheses. If the hypothesis does not pass the test, using an appropriate experimental or observational protocol, then the hypothesis is effectively DISPROVEN. However, if the hypothesis passes the test, it is not entirely proven, just not disproven. Further tests or observations might cause the hypothesis to be either rejected or modified. In other words, an hypothesis which is not disproven is viable although never 100% proven. Anyone who says he is attempting to "prove" anything is not working or thinking like a scientist. Does this make any sense to you?