Evolution as fact and theory
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Many scientists and philosophers of science have described evolution as fact and theory, a phrase which was used as the title of an article by Stephen Jay Gould in 1981. He describes fact in science as meaning data, not absolute certainty but "confirmed to such a degree that it would be perverse to withhold provisional assent." A scientific theory is a well-substantiated explanation of such facts. The facts of evolution come from observational evidence of current processes, from imperfections in organisms recording historical common descent, and from transitions in the fossil record. Theories of evolution provide a provisional explanation for these facts.
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See also
- Epistemology
- Evidence of common descent
- Status of evolution as a theory (in objections to evolution)
- Misconceptions about evolution (in List of misconceptions)
- Theory vs. Fact (in Creation-evolution controversy)
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