Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution has been widely accepted by the scientific community, yet it remains controversial among the public. This disparity is primarily due to a lack of understanding about the nature of science and how theories are established. Evolution is supported by a vast array of evidence from multiple scientific disciplines, including palaeontology, comparative anatomy, biogeography, and molecular biology. This evidence is so compelling that evolution is considered a fact by scientists, not just a theory.
The term ‘theory’ in science does not imply uncertainty, as it does in everyday usage. In science, a theory is a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world, based on a body of facts that have been repeatedly confirmed through observation and experiment.
The theory of evolution explains how life has diversified over billions of years. It does not attempt to explain the origin of life, which is a separate question addressed by the field of abiogenesis. Misunderstandings about the scope of evolution also contribute to public scepticism.
Public acceptance of evolution is crucial for a scientifically literate society. To achieve this, education must emphasise the nature of science, the meaning of theories, and the overwhelming evidence supporting evolution.
Go to source article: https://evolution-outreach.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1007/s12052-008-0092-1