Should we replace the theory of gravity in science class with something else since it is "only a theory"?

Answer 1

And let's not forget atomic theory. The existence of atoms is also "only a theory". No-one has ever seen an atom. Their existence has been inferred from observed secondary evidence, but has never been proven. Yet we not only teach our children that atoms do in fact exist, but even their substomic parts, their size, movements, and modes of interaction. We can even calculate how many of these inferred, unproven, theoretical particles are inferred to be in a drop of water! That's a lot of information about something whose very existence is "only a theory"! But of course we do know atoms exist, for all practical purposes. When a theory is supported by overwhelming observed evidence; there is no scientific evidence that negates the theory; and no other scientific theory has been proposed that takes into account all the observable evidence, then that theory may be considered factual for practical purposes, and its status as a "theory" becomes an irrelevant technicality. We find a similar situation with the "theory" of evolution. We know for a fact that evolution occurs and has occurred since life first appeared on this planet, because of the overwhelming supporting evidence, the utter lack of contradictory scientific evidence, and the lack of any other viable scientific theory that addresses all the observed evidence.
.

Answer 2

Actually, it's the law of gravity. If it were a theory, my answer would be the same - no, as long as it is taught as a theory and not as a fact.

I'm assuming you're alluding to the controversy with the theory of evolution. This is a classic example of why students need to be reminded that a theory is not a fact and is subject to change. Over 20 years ago, it was noted in scientific journals based on the paleontologic record that biological change occurred in spurts followed by steady state - exactly the opposite of what is required by the theory of evolution. Ever since, researchers have been trying to fix the theory and I read fairly recently that one team is about to publish a conciliation idea. However, in the mean time, evolution, having been taught as a fact for so long, has been all but impossible to be relegated to a failed theory. When an educator tries, nonsense is spewed out about something unrelated - religion.

Answer 3

The Law of Gravity--as discovered is a law, it has been proven to exist. It has passed the test of the 5 steps of "Scientific Method"--scientists have yet to learn much more of this marvelous force, but it exists, it is a reality.

*** g89 10/8 p. 19 The Fascinating Force of Gravity ***

Gravity—Vital for Life

The discoveries of both Newton and Einstein demonstrate that laws govern the movements of heavenly bodies and that gravity acts as a bond holding the universe together. A professor of physics, writing in New Scientist, drew attention to the evidence of design in these laws and said: “The most minute change in the relative strengths of gravitational and electromagnetic forces would turn stars like the Sun into blue giants or red dwarfs. All around us, we seem to see evidence that nature got it just right.”

Without gravity we simply could not exist. Just consider: Gravity holds our sun together, sustaining its nuclear reactions, which supply our needed heat and light. Gravity keeps our spinning earth in orbit around the sun—making day and night and seasons—and prevents us from being thrown off like mud from a spinning wheel. Earth’s atmosphere is held in place by gravity, while the pull of gravity from the moon and the sun generates regular tides that help circulate the waters of our oceans.

Using a tiny organ of our inner ear (otolith), we sense gravity and learn to take it into account from infancy when walking, running, or jumping. How much more difficult it is for astronauts when they have to cope with zero-gravity conditions in spaceflight!


On the other hand the word theory is always or should always be used when any vestige of evolution is referred to--Not any part of it has passed the test of "Scientific Method.

And of course we do not need evolution to be able to live,as we need gravity.

Answer 4

Gravity happens, we know this to be a fact. How it works though, we dont know for a fact so we need to call it a theory (the workings of it)

Evolution does happen but to what extent? Do things change over time... yes thats a fact... did birds evolve from lizards? That is a theory. Did we all start from one single celled organism? That is a theory. Does it take 50 billion years for a mountain to form? Theory

Answer 5

No.
It is the "law of gravity". (law meaning here: something that has yet to be contradicted or have exceptions on earth.
This is because it has been proved to exist everywhere we have been on earth.
We are not on the earth at all places at all times.

If your referring to evolution and the arguement that it should be taken out,
that theory is not even a theory anymore. It is a dogma. (it has been proven WRONG! It is more based on faith than Creationism is! Chemical soup/energy/Big Bang/whateveryouwanttoputherethatisn'tintelligent is very hard to believe compared to a designer.)
Look at real modern science, not biased textbooks (they are out their) biology, chemistry, etc. Evolution just doesn't cut it.

Answer 6

It seems to me that as a country we are going to look pretty red in the face if we deny gravity exists. All theories should be taught and understood in science classes as should the actual definition of theory.
**JENN**

Answer 7

A theory is the result of an experiment that has been performed over and over again with the same results.

Answer 8

I agree. Despite hundreds of years of so called scientists claiming that gravity is a "fact" they have completely failed to particularise the matter or energy that causes it. It could just as easily be the love of Jesus that keeps us stuck to the ground.

From now on in science lessons "Intelligent Gluing" should be given equal credence as gravity.

Answer 9

Yes, let's replace also the Theory of Relativity.

Answer 10

Definitely. As a Newtonist we worship apples as they were divinely sent to guide us in the truth of this world of sticky ground. To doubt this and have theories of 'gravity' is obscene and un American.