Data can show patterns and help predict outcomes , and it can also help validate theories .

数据可以展现某些模式，帮助我们预测结果，也可以帮助我们验证理论。

Supporters of both approaches have data to support their theories ; neither has proven victorious yet .

两种方式的支持者都有数据支持他们的理论；尚未有一方已证明获得胜利。

They can test hypotheses and theories and say , " all right , this worked in the past .

他们可以测试假说和理论，说：“好吧，这样做过去很奏效。

Often they reach for laws and theories first .

通常他们会首先寻求定律和理论。

He abandoned theories like scorched earth in the forest .

他放弃了一个个像林中焦土似的学说。