"If a theory is true, then event X should occur." Suppose event X does not occur. What would the typical scientist conclude?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The typical scientist would conclude that the study failed to support the theory and would look to replicate the study to determine if the results are consistent. This is because the absence of Event X does not necessarily disprove the theory, as there may be other factors at play. Therefore, option C is the best choice. Option A is incorrect because the theory is not necessarily disproven by the absence of Event X. Option B is incorrect because scientific inquiry does not rely on accidents. Option D is incorrect because there is no evidence in the scenario presented that suggests the original hypothesis was deduced improperly.

"If a Theory Is True, Then Event X Should Occur