Scientists turn to evolution to explain scientific phenomena because it is a well-supported and widely accepted scientific theory that provides a framework for understanding the diversity of life on Earth. Evolutionary theory has been extensively tested and corroborated through multiple lines of evidence, including fossil records, comparative anatomy, genetics, and molecular biology.
It is important to note that the term "theory" in science has a different meaning than its colloquial use. In science, a theory is a well-substantiated explanation of a wide range of observations and experimental evidence. Evolutionary theory is supported by a vast body of evidence from various scientific disciplines, and it has withstood rigorous scrutiny and testing over many decades.
While it is true that evolution cannot be "proven" in the same way that a mathematical equation can be proven, this is not unique to evolution. Many scientific theories, such as the theory of gravity or the atomic theory, also cannot be "proven" in an absolute sense. Instead, they are supported by a convergence of evidence and have predictive power, allowing scientists to make accurate and testable predictions about the natural world.
The scientific method involves formulating hypotheses, making observations, conducting experiments, and analyzing data. Evolutionary theory is consistent with the scientific method because it is testable and has been subjected to extensive empirical investigation. Scientists continually gather new evidence and refine our understanding of evolutionary processes, but the core principles of evolution have remained robust.
In summary, scientists turn to evolution to explain scientific phenomena because it is a well-supported scientific theory that has been extensively tested and validated. While it cannot be proven with absolute certainty, it is consistent with the scientific method and provides a powerful framework for understanding the diversity of life on Earth.