I wish this meme was around 5-10 years ago when there was so much stupid debate about the semantics of the word “theory”.
Also, I watched this great Dawkins clip the other day when he’s talking to someone who argued, “As far as I know, no scientist has declared evolution a fact. It’s just a theory.” (Btw, I could imagine a hundred hilarious ways for this scene to unfold.) Dawkins just looked at him and said, “Yes, well, I’m a scientist and let me assure you, it is a fact.” (I kinda wish the guy had asked Dawkins for his credentials.)
Anyways, an important point for all debates - scientific or otherwise - is establishing the meaning of words. I’ve seen too many stupid arguments where people agree to an idea but simply use different terminology. Also, don’t let semantics limit your mind; I’ve seen it all too often and it’s troubles me how otherwise intelligent people can get so stuck with something as simple as a label for an idea or a conventional way of understanding something. (e.g. “Marriage is defined as a bond between a man and a woman.” So.. why can’t we just redefine it? Furthermore, it’s not like marriage hasn’t been redefined before.)
P.s. Looking at the photo again, I realized there’s another layer: People often don’t understand “evolution” either, and then I have to tell them that I don’t believe in what they think evolution is either! So, Senior Montoya, wise words all around.
(via approachingsignificance)
