a theory explains all the data you have gathered, including tests that the theory predicted. When you collect data that the theory fails to explain, you look fo

a theory explains all the data you have gathered, including tests that the theory predicted. When you collect data that the theory fails to explain, you look for a hypothesis that makes some predictions that you could test. If the new data you collect is according to your hypothesis, then your hypothesis is on the way to being part of the theory. stop calling an earnest effort to choose the right word "nitpicking". If our theories of matter, energy, space-time and relativity rule out the hypothesis for interstellar trade, that is not a theory of interstellar trade. If our theories of matter, energy etc. rule in interstellar trade, that's an interstellar trade hypothesis. methinks you are guilty of the problem I was pointing out?