A fact is an event we can observe. A scientific theory or law is a testable explanation of facts. By testable we mean we can predict from it and see if our predictions are right.
Theory is not fact. Its truth requires only that the predictions be confirmed so that we can say things work "as if" they are governed by the theory.
We can say that a tsunami is an immediate act of God or we can use geological theory that acts "as if" the tsunami is a wave resulting from underwater movement of tectonic plates. It moves across the ocean, and we can predict its striking land by obtaining sensor measurements from appropriate devices located around the world.
The theory of evolution is that the species are shaped by environment. The mechanism is the environmental selection of individuals who will have offspring. The corollary is that the individual is shaped by environment.
Intelligent design is a labor saver. If drug-resistant diseases are a product of intelligent design rather than of environmental impact, then we have no need for much drug research nor for exercising care in completing prescribed drug dosages. If individual characteristics are products of intelligent design rather than of environmental impact, then we have no need to discipline or otherwise regulate the environments of children.
-Gordon M. Harrington,
Waterloo.
--source
the whole page of opinion letters today deals with intelligent design and evolution theory. a good read if you want to hear both sides.
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