what makes an idea or theory scientific?

Answer 1

If it was derived from the following method. If it was not then it is called poor science:

Define the question
Gather information and resources
Form hypothesis
Perform experiment and collect data
Analyze data
Interpret data and draw conclusions that serve as a starting point for new hypotheses
Publish results

Answer 2

The scientific method requires that ideas and theories be:

-based on empirical data (i.e. you form your theories not the other way around)

-testable (I could theorize that a flashlight doesn't work because of ghosts, but that would not be a scientific theory because it can't be tested to be supported or disproved)

-supported by further experimentation (If you theorize a flashlight doesn't work because it's batteries don't work, and it works after you change the batteries the theory has been supported; if it still doesn't work with new batteries the theory has been disproved and a new theory must be formed.)

If an idea or theory meets these three criteria it is scientific.

So something like global warming theory would be scientific because:
- it was formed from climate data
-we can test global climate patterns and see if the warming trends observed are continuing as predicted
-the theory can (and will) be supported or disproved by the data gathered

While something like intelligent design theory is unscientific because:
-it was formed from religious beliefs (not data)
-it is untestable
-it cannot be supported or disproved by expirimentation

Answer 3

A theory is scientific if it has been tested. First a Hypothesis ( an educated guess of what has/is/will happen) is formulated. The ypothesis is then tested through experimentation's and observation. The hypothesis is then modified according to observations/results and tested again. This continues until the hypothesis stands the scrutiny of the experimentation and observation. At this point it is put forth as a Theory. it is now up for scientific scrutiny of others.

Answer 4

It fits the observed facts, it doesn't contradict any other theories or natural laws which have been demonstrated to be correct, and it doesn't require the intervention of unknown powers, spiritual beings, or 'magic'.
It becomes even more solidly 'scientific' if it predicts events which have not, as yet, been observed.

Doug