As many times as the 'scientific' definition of theory has been posted, it never fails, that folks refuse to accept it, because it does not fit into their personal belief system...oh well...
I think it goes beyond that. The misleaders usually know they are misleading. There's a deliberate effort to sway people who are not informed by playing with words. And these same people claim to hold the moral and religious high ground. Ironic, isn't it.
I am not sure what the reason is...if its a deliberate attempt to mislead people, that is indeed, the moral low ground...if its an attempt to hide the meaning, because that meaning gives credibility, then the reason is one of fear...whatever the reason may be, its dishonest, in my opinion...