what is a Hypothesis?

A hypothesis (from Greek ὑπόθεσις) consists either of a suggested explanation for a phenomenon or of a reasoned proposal suggesting a possible correlation between multiple phenomena. The term derives from the Greek, hypotithenai meaning “to put under” or “to suppose.” The scientific method requires that one can test a scientific hypothesis. Scientists generally base such hypotheses on previous observations or on extensions of scientific theories.

Hypothesis is apparently older than the Greek root. It appears to be Endo-European in origin. It can mean just an opinion or it can be a series of suppositions leading to a theory if the ideas prove out.

So, one begins with a hypothesis and sets down certain observations and gives a conclusion.

An example: “I witness lightening; I am astounded and confused by it. I cannot explain lightening so I assign the event to the actions of some deity, unseen, imagined either by me or someone else who told me about the deity. That is a supposition or hypothesis. It is incorrect but it stands until someone explains the event correctly.

A ‘Theory” is much more complex. It must explain observable events or assumptions, detail the experiments used to explore it/them, offer proof by explaining the experiments and provide the math for others to work through. The theory must them make predictions about future events based upon the assumption and the math, if any.

This is why creationism is NOT a theory. The opinion that ‘the Dallas Cowboys is the bestest football team ever’ is NOT a theory. These positions are ideas, opinions, hopes and dreams but neither example qualifies as…Theory!

A theory stands only until it fails to satisfy its predictions; when this happens the theory is tossed out the closest window and is, at that point, invalid, deader that Dubya’s gimme Masters “Degree” from Yale.

Evolution, for example, has passed all its tests and has been verified time and again by observers and testers. The fact that religious people wish it were invalid and constantly assault it is notwithstanding; evolution keep passing each test and is therefore sound theory or, for the rest of us, fact!

Jim D

Hypothesis is the 2nd step in the scientific process.

1. Problem

2. Hypothesis

3. Experiment

4. Analysis

5. Conclusion

The actual ‘word definition’ eludes me right now.

A hypothesis is an educated guess or a guess that you think will happen that makes sense.

Theory. No definitive answer found to be truth.