[Nightshift]

Is there anyone here who doesnt believe in the big bang theory or black holes?

I'm curious, there is some very good mathemeatical models that are the basis of many astronomical theories that are taunted around and discussed as if they are known fact. I have never observed nor met an observer of a black hole, indeed I like the theories behind black holes and everything suggests that they should exist, but correct me if I am wrong, no one has ever actually proven their existance nor the existance of any event horizon so why do we discuss them as if they are undeniable fact?

The big bang theory has a good foundation also but this is one I just can't subscribe to, it just doesnt make sense to me. Again though it is discussed in publications as if it is fact. This and many other theories.

I read about the British decision to withdraw from the Gemini telescope project based on a budget defecit and spiraling costs, this is indeed a shame but why would a government keep funding (at great cost) scientific research when the scientists all banter about theories that mean nothing to any one and are not proven fact. Is this the best that the governments billions can come up with? Is it really that the only fundamental functioning development of the space age is Velcro? I know to find answers you have to spend money but thats all we astronomers do, spend money.

The scientific community needs to start proving theories rather than endorsing them as fact, I fear that the funding cuts are becoming more widespread simply because astronomy isnt providing the population with any tangeable outcomes. Just more questions than we started with.

What's your thoughts on this?

Dennis.