Where Can Scientists Discuss Physics Theories Online?

In summary, the conversation discusses the search for a physics forum where theory discussion is allowed after the original poster's first post was deleted by a moderator. The conversation also touches on the rules and guidelines of Physicsforums.com and suggests alternative forums for speculative discussions. The conversation ends with a reminder to focus on asking questions rather than proposing answers and to be mindful of existing scientific evidence.
  • #1
AnOpenMind
Does anyone know a physics forum where theory discussion is allowed? My first post was deleted by a mod for trying to discuss ideas.
 
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  • #2
You're just looking for trouble now, aren't you??
 
  • #3
AnOpenMind said:
Does anyone know a physics forum where theory discussion is allowed? My first post was deleted by a mod for trying to discuss ideas.

It was deleted not because you wanted to do a "theory discussion", but rather you wanted to do a speculative theory discussion. There's a difference.

Please re-read the PF Rules. In particular, this part:

Overly Speculative Posts:
One of the main goals of PF is to help students learn the current status of physics as practiced by the scientific community; accordingly, Physicsforums.com strives to maintain high standards of academic integrity. There are many open questions in physics, and we welcome discussion on those subjects provided the discussion remains intellectually sound. It is against our Posting Guidelines to discuss, in the PF forums or in blogs, new or non-mainstream theories or ideas that have not been published in professional peer-reviewed journals or are not part of current professional mainstream scientific discussion. Non-mainstream or personal theories will be deleted. Unfounded challenges of mainstream science and overt crackpottery will not be tolerated anywhere on the site. Linking to obviously "crank" or "crackpot" sites is prohibited.

This applies throughout this forum.

Zz.
 
  • #4
Yes I understood the first time you said it. That's why it hasn't happened again.
 
  • #5
micromass said:
You're just looking for trouble now, aren't you??

No. I'm looking for a discussion of a specific topic.
 
  • #6
AnOpenMind said:
No. I'm looking for a discussion on a specific topic.

A discussion about what? About which forums do allow speculative posts? Well, do a quick google search for physics forums and see what pops up! There are a lot of physics forums around! (none of them is as good as PF though :-p )

Maybe try http://www.sciforums.com/
 
  • #7
micromass said:
A discussion about what?

I'm not permitted to say here. If someone can suggest a good forum in which to talk about it, I'd be happy to explain.
 
  • #9
Thank you very much sir. Yes I'm already there now having a look, as I should have pointed out. I came across PhysForum and am checking there as well. I apologize for any trouble caused by me posting certain types of ideas.
 
  • #10
Ugh. Both sciforums and physforum are pond scum.
 
  • #11
  • #12
TurtleMeister said:
This site: http://www.bautforum.com/index.php, has a sub forum called ATM, "against the mainstream", where you can present your theory.
You mean "theory" . The quotes are necessary, because actual, repeatable, confirmable data are necessary in order to have a theory. OP has a speculation.
 
  • #13
AnOpenMind said:
Does anyone know a physics forum where theory discussion is allowed? My first post was deleted by a mod for trying to discuss ideas.

physicsforums.com

I'm not permitted to say here.

Don't be so dramatic. You're not allowed to speculate. You can say "I speculated about [..]" because that sentence in itself is not speculation.
 
  • #16
Stay here, I'm sure you'll like it better. Just be sure to look over your posts and ensure thet follow all of the forum guidelines. Without those rules, this forum would be a mess of speculations, and stuff of the sort.

If you really need to speculate, then do so, but keep it to yourself, and consider it wrong, as you do not have a proper mathematical understanding of the subject (I'm assuming). I'm not trying to be unfriendly, I'm trying to tell the truth.
 
  • #17
AnOpenMind said:
Does anyone know a physics forum where theory discussion is allowed? My first post was deleted by a mod for trying to discuss ideas.

There really is no need to go elsewhere, what you can do here at PF is far better than any website where people discuss speculation. Simply ask questions rather than propose answers. E.g

Instead of...
New User said:
Hello everyone! I have a theory about what goes on inside a black hole. I think that because of infinite time and red shift and quantum teleportation the universe must have been born and ended in the same black hole. The universe therefore is infinite therefore...

...one should say
New User said:
Hello everyone! I am really interested in learning what goes on inside a black hole. What does current scientific evidence suggest?
Then you and everyone else who is eager to learn can find out! Remember any idea you come up with probably touches on subjects that have already been thoroughly investigated.
 
  • #18
Excellent response Ryna! And a perfect place to end.
 

FAQ: Where Can Scientists Discuss Physics Theories Online?

What is a theory discussion?

A theory discussion is a conversation or debate about a scientific theory, which is a well-established explanation of a natural phenomenon based on extensive evidence and experimentation.

Why are theory discussions important in science?

Theory discussions are important because they allow scientists to critically evaluate and refine existing theories, as well as propose new ones. This process leads to a deeper understanding of the natural world and drives scientific progress.

How do scientists engage in theory discussions?

Scientists engage in theory discussions by presenting evidence, data, and arguments to support or challenge a theory. They also consider alternative explanations and collaborate with other experts in the field to reach a consensus.

Are theory discussions always productive?

No, theory discussions can sometimes become heated or mired in personal opinions rather than scientific evidence. However, when conducted in a respectful and evidence-based manner, theory discussions can lead to valuable insights and advancements in scientific understanding.

Can non-scientists participate in theory discussions?

Yes, non-scientists can participate in theory discussions by learning about the topic and contributing their perspectives and questions. However, it is important to defer to the expertise of scientists and rely on evidence rather than personal beliefs or opinions.

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