I'd suggest the definition of theory that I heard in college several
lifetimes ago: an explanation of observable phenomena. Or, as I like to
translate it, a statement about the world that accounts for what's
happening within it. How you define the world and the rigor with which
you identify the relationships among its components are critical. Too
many hypotheses (guesses about relationships) are passed off as theories.
Back to the world of guesses, suppositions, assumptions, and totally
unreasonable expectations....
-- David E. Birren Phone: (608)267-2442 Wisconsin Dept. of Natural Resources Fax: (608)267-3579 Bureau of Management & Budget E-mail: birred@dnr.state.wi.us"Our future is to be food - Wisdom's gift - for what comes after us." -- Saadi (Neil Douglas-Klotz)