Lidia gives a talk at a psychology conference in which she presents her new theory about the causes of autism. At one point, an audience member interrupts and says "but that's just your theory." What is the problem with this statement?
A) A theory is not the same thing as an opinion or belief.
B) If Lidia is presenting the theory at a psychology conference it must be true.
C) If most of the psychologists in the audience agree with Lidia, then the theory is likely to be true.
D) The audience member should have used the term hypothesis, not theory.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The problem with the audience member's statement is that they are treating "theory" as if it means the same thing as an opinion or belief. In science, a theory is a well-substantiated explanation for a phenomenon that has been tested and verified through rigorous experimentation and observation. It is not simply someone's personal opinion or belief.

Lidia Gives a Talk at a Psychology Conference in Which