Although I understand what is meant, I have to take issue with the question, "do you believe in evolution?" Specifically, the word 'believe'.

I don't 'believe' in evolution. There is no 'belief' about it. I accept the theory as the best explanation of the evidence. But I don't believe it. I don't accept it on faith, which is what is implied by the word 'believe/belief'.

Now, I'm not knocking those who do choose to accept something purely on faith. I have much respect for them.

What I wish scientists would do is elucidate science as the *fact* based knowledge system that it is. There is no room for 'faith' in science. I wish they would stop using the word believe, because it gives the general public the wrong impression of science.

Too many people think scientists 'believe' evolution, and "besides it's *only* a 'theory'". That's the other problem I have. The general public think of a scientific theory being the same as a wild butt guess. It is not. They do not understand that a theory is supported by evidence and facts, can be tested. What people think of as a theory is what scientists call a hypothesis.

I wish scientists would explain these 'facts' to the audiences they talk to.

Brian