[dirtboy]

That makes for a tough row to hoe when we're dealing with evidence that was present before we, and most of our forefathers were born.

Not really. You gather what facts you can and then try to fashion a theory. Can that theory be wrong? Of course. But it is still a better process than starting with a premise.

[Fester Chugabrew]

You gather what facts you can and then try to fashion a theory.

Well, sure. Deduction is a good thing. But who can interpret facts and evidence completely apart from a premise? Have you met such a person?