When scientists,mathematicians and historians say they have explained something have they really?

Question

My english teacher just gave this topic to write on. I have to write a 600-800 words essay and submit it on wednesday. Well the topic is kinda confusing but i think it means do the scientists, mathematicians and historians explain things for the good of mankind or just for their benefits. So i need some points to state that these people really do things for the good of people and not just for fame. Some quatations linked to the topic will also do. Thanks a million.

Answer 1

There was a time when everyone believed the world was flat (some still do, I'm told). Then, explorer Magellan circumnavigated the globe, and scientists "explained" the the world was, in fact, round.

However, the sun, moon etc. all moved around the earth.

Galileo came up with a "better" model, where the Earth revolves around the sun. The Catholic Church forced him to recant, but they finally admitted he was right- about 450 years later.

The thing is, each scientist was creating a model, to explain events the scientist witnessed. Later scientists revised those models, as more data was gathered. SO- with scientists especially, you'd be hard pressed to say "Nobody Will EVER Dispute This !"

With each dispute, with each revision, our overall knowledge expands.
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Just thought of this- When those who back Intelligent Design just say "God Did It", are they really explaining ? Or just using God as an excuse ?

Answer 2

I hope this will get you started. let me know.