[From Chris Cherpas (951201.1209 PT)]
[re: > Bill Powers (951201.0100 MST)]
BP:
The only way to make it obvious is to study the basic theory until you
understand it completely. Then you will see what the problem really is,
and what the solution really is. The theorist has done his job; now you
have to do your job.
cc:
On the other hand, if a theory doesn't generate (within 20+ years)
much experimental research, there may be something wrong with the
theory -- it might be wonderfully self-consistent, but have only
minimal external validity. We are interested in "living" systems
here, aren't we? Guys, where's the beef?
OK, this is flip. But there's a legitimate question here (I think).
Maybe the historical perspective would help me wherein a powerful
theory was given to minimal experimental support for decades at a
time until the zeitgeist was ready for it...
Regards,
cc