Criteria For Judging Interpretations
In order for an explanation to be considered scientific, it must:
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Explain Maximum Observations with Minimum Assumptions
A good interpretation must explain a large body of observations rather than just one or two. For example, a good interpretation would explain not just why a pencil falls to Earth, but why all objects fall to Earth. Good explanations must also have very few assumptions, or ideas that are accepted as true without proof (preconditions). The theory must not just deal with objects falling under a full moon in the snow, but with objects falling at any time.
Be Compatible With a Well-Established Body of Knowledge
In order for an explanation of observations to be scientific, it must comply with ideas that have already been tested many times and are generally accepted. In Bone From a Dry Sea, Vinny found a shoulder bone from about 4 million years ago with a hole ground into it. This observation went against the accepted knowledge that tools were not made by humans until much later, so Vinny's father was skeptical. However, if enough observations against well-established bodies of knowledge are made, these explanations can shift.
Be Tested
Testing explanations is the most efficient way to strengthen their validity or disprove it. It is not difficult to test theories, as normal people do it in their everyday lives. An example is a doctor trying to diagnose a patient. The doctor will test his various theories by looking at the patient and giving them medication. Eventually, after several theories have been ruled out, the doctor should come to the correct diagnosis.
Have Exceptions
No interpretation can explain all of the observations found. For example, although the theory of Continental Drift is well accepted, critics could say that they observe the world around them staying still, not moving as the theory suggests. This rule is the only rule that does not have exceptions.
Sources/Further Reading
Manual for the Cultural Foundations of Ancient Civilizations pages 5-6.
[[1]] (Lecture)
