ABSTRACT
We have spent some time in the previous chapter looking at the role of theories in the physical and the human sciences. We have suggested that the main function of scientific theories is to interpret facts in a new way, by suggesting new links that had not previously been contemplated. In this way, theories make predictions and so prompt new research. In summary, if the findings of this research support the predictions, then they are said to confirm the theory. If they do not support the predictions, they are said to be inconsistent, or even to falsify, the theory. When a theory is no longer considered tenable it may be adjusted, in which case new predictions should arise, or it may be rejected, in which case a new theory will supplant it.
