[Coyoteman]

That means, no matter how well substantiated the explanation is; no matter how organized and accepted the system of knowledge may be; no matter how many facts or laws are incorporated; no matter how testable the priniciples are; no matter how long the accepted history and the confidence it inspires....It all, very well, could be a false premise. which again, for all practical purposes, amounts to nothing more than speculation and conjecture...regardless of how complex, impressive, or elegant it may seem to be.

You are arguing from wishful thinking rather than a rational basis.

If all of the tests have been supporting a particular theory, for, say, 150 years, do you think its safe to bet the rent money against that theory?

Take a look at the changes in the overall theory of evolution in the last, say, 50, years. Not much, eh? Minor details here and there, some elaboration in particular areas. Even the entire field of genetics did not change any important details.

Nothing I would be willing to bet the rent money against. But maybe you like the long odds...

[csense]

If all of the tests have been supporting a particular theory, for, say, 150 years, do you think its safe to bet the rent money against that theory?

Would you bet your life on such a theory? Better yet, would you bet your soul....