> Either all *theories* need to have the word pasted on, or none need to.
Well, while none *need* to, some have "theory" sorta culturally attached to 'em. The "theory of realtivity" and the "theory of evolution" are common, but "big bang theory" is unusual.
I would guess that the context would have a lot to do with it -- if you're discussing the 'theory' itself, it would make sense to use 'theory' (like in that excerpt someone posted above about the 'big bang').
I was refering to the idea of *always* requiring the use of the word theory, regardless of context. Even with newer, controversial concepts like 'String Theory', it isn't even always necessary to use the word theory. I've read articles about 'Superstrings', for instance.
The idea that some AP manual insists that 'theory' be appeneded to the words 'Big Bang' whenever they appear, in whatever context, seems to me very, very unlikely.
It would depend on the context.