Can theories be proven once and for all?

Question

Can successful researchers be absolutely certain of their results, prove theories once and for all?

Answer 1

When 'Theories` are proven
they get to be called 'Laws`.
Then when the 'Laws` prove not
quite absolutely correct, we generate
new theories to explain why.

And so it goes..........

Answer 2

A theory is the result of some findings or relations proven physically valid and resolved mathematically.

It can be once and for all and this needs the likes of Issac Newton and his likes which will provide a solution that will not be challenged. But if physics methods and concepts change we will need a new proof of the same theory and the theory still stands.

Answer 3

The beauty of science is that it's always open for questioning and testing its theories and hypotheses - something most religions don't do.
I find nothing wrong with questioning one's faith, but some people see questions as a form of heresy - assuming you have to believe unwaveringly or not believe at all.

Regardless - there are many "theories" that may as well be proven once and for all.. the theory of gravity, for instance, which explains gravity based on observation, physical evidence and experiments - then there's the more complication theory of relativity which replaced much of the theory of gravity and is a bit more accurate.
Constant testing, constant experimentation, etc. it's the whole basis of the scientific method.

Answer 4

A theory is proven once a system of repeatable and explainable rules exists. Then they call it a LAW.

For Einsteins theory of Special Relativity to become reality we have to PROVE repeatedly all aspects of it and define it into rules that anyone with the proper equipment can repeat any time they want to. Then we can call it Einstein's Laws of Special Realtivity.

Answer 5

Absolutely certain implies 100% and no one can claim to be 100% accurate.

I could theorize that the Sun will rise tomorrow, but only with 99.9999% certainty. There is always that small chance that some unforseen event will occur.

Most scientific theories are accepted, but not with 100% certainty, but certainly with enough evidence to be accepted as valid. The stronger the evidence, and easier to replicate and/or predict, the more likely it is to be accepted.

Answer 6

No. Isaac Newtons laws lasted for centuries, and until observaional descrepancies showed up in the orbits of the outer planets, they were considered pretty much the word of the creator made english by Newton. Newer technologies, new ideas,and better observations always have a chance of overturning the current paradigm.

Answer 7

that is kind of the job for scientists. to make up theories based on what they see in order to support or deny a theory someone else made based on what they have seen.

ultimately we know nothing ablolutely.

Answer 8

Of course they can, look at Einsteins theories, every one has been proven many many times to be incredibly accurate. Have you not read any books at all in your life.

Answer 9

impossible