Two kinds of theories

Scientific theory

1. New data is gathered.

2. A hypothesis is formed that links the new data to the framework that we know is true.

3. The hypothesis is tested, replicated by other researchers, and verified.

4. The results are published in a scholarly journal after a double-blind peer review process.

5. The theory is added to the canon of scientific knowledge.

Example: The theory of relativity

Conspiracy theory

1. I saw something on the internet.

2. It confirms my belief that people on the other side are pure evil and all-powerful.

3. I want this to be true.

4. I post it on Facebook.

5. There!!

Example: Obama is  coming for your guns on the last day of his presidency.