Regarding Dennis D. Morgan’s letter, “Old days were better in many ways” (April 30):
Mr. Morgan believes that global warming is a myth, yet offers us no evidence to support this. Global warming may be theoretical at present, but that does not mean it is not worth knowing about. A myth, on the other hand, is a very different thing, and cannot explain events scientifically. Myth exists in the realm of storytelling.
Mr. Morgan believes yesterday’s schools taught only “true” science. Apparently Mr. Morgan believes that past and present “theory” isn’t worth teaching. I believe it’s generally accepted that current “truth” has roots in hypothesis and theory development (the scientific method).
The truth may be the current view of science, subject to revision in light of new evidence. What was thought to be truth or fact yesterday may no longer fit current scientific reality.
If we only taught students what was “true” at the moment, what is generally accepted as proven theory, we would deprive them of knowing how that truth came into being. Similarly, not teaching what is current theory, what’s being studied, what is “not yet true,” deprives students of the whole picture. For example, evolution may be considered theoretical, but that doesn’t mean it is not worth teaching and knowing. Science seeks to help us explain our world, to seek the truth. All theories should be welcome, if they are based on good science, and their truth will be determined on merit.
Perhaps at times yesterday seems better than today, but we must be careful not to drive the car by looking through the rear view mirror.
Everett
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