Because a theory, like a portrait, is an approximation. When a better approximation is found, it is adopted. Some maps are better than others.
Anyway, is there such a thing as Reality?
Yes. The fundamental statement of philosophy is, "I am aware that something is there." You cannot have the subjective ("I am aware...") without the objective ("...something is there"). Existence exists.
"No observational discrepancies with that theory are known -- yet its strength goes far beyond this, in the number of hitherto inexplicable phenomena that the theory now explains."
According to this standard, evolution would rank as a "superb" theory.
I agree. I think science provides explanations, knowledge, and at best understanding. But not Truth. Unless you accept scientific explanations as partial or half Truths, or evolving Truths, until something better comes along.
Existence exists.
Again, I agree. I also leave open the possibility of the existence of realities that I am not yet aware of.
According to this standard, evolution would rank as a "superb" theory.
So be it. I have no problem with that.
According to this standard, evolution would rank as a "superb" theory.
Okay, in that case the irreducible complexity of the bacterial flagellum most have been refuted, the evolution of life birth gradually from an egg must have been proven, the gradual development of the eye must have been proven, all the Cambrian phyla must have been shown to have ancestors, favorable mutations must be happening all the time, species must be transforming themselves slowly before our eyes, etc., etc., etc.
Care to give the scientific proof for ANY of the above happening according to evolutionary theory?