Hypotheses, conjectures, speculations (however baroque) exist independently. The question is: what is needed for them to become 'theories' in math or science. A

Hypotheses, conjectures, speculations (however baroque) exist independently. The question is: what is needed for them to become 'theories' in math or science. A basic test is comparison to agreed-on facts. Prediction is considered to be a strong test because it uncovers -new- facts. Else: what's the point?