What is a skeptical theory?

[MRT]

I saw a theory described as 'skeptical' on a forum the other day (I think you can guess it wasn't this one!). I can see how a person be skeptical but not a theory. Surely, a theory either explains things or it doesn't. I don't see where skepticism comes into it.

Perhaps a skeptical theory is one that 'explains away' something rather than simply 'explains' it. I've never understood 'explaining away' either. A phenomenon doesn't cease to exist simply because you have an explanation for it.

Incidentally, I seem to have been chucked off two 'believers' forums recently, despite saying nothing remotely controversial. I hope I don't get chucked off here too!

[median]

Incidentally, I seem to have been chucked off two 'believers' forums recently, despite saying nothing remotely controversial.

Now that does suprise me. They're usually so even-tempered ;D

Possibly, though, in that context, a skeptical theory is one that doesn't entertain fanciful notions. Explaining things in a more parsimonious and hence, for some people, more mundane fashion.

[Lord Muck oGentry]

Perhaps a skeptical theory is one that 'explains away' something rather than simply 'explains' it. I've never understood 'explaining away' either. A phenomenon doesn't cease to exist simply because you have an explanation for it.



It's all the fault of those nasty skeptics who explain away experiencing pink elephants but not experiencing earaches. :-)