Living on the Fringe

Fringe science, what's that? Well I'm glad you asked because it's an important aspect of science that is oft overlooked by mainstream society and, indeed, mainstream science. Simply put fringe science is any scientific inquiry in an established field of study that departs from mainstream theory and might not fit well in other categories of science. For example: There is mainstream science, this is a field of study that is widely accepted, often beyond the point of being called theoretical. The general public, in most cases accepts this as well as the majority, if not entirety of the scientific community.

Beyond this there is Protoscience. This is sound science, often not widely accepted or known, trying to establish itself and its legitimacy. Then there is fringe science. This is a science that departs significantly from what we man and may just as easily go the way of proto or mainstream science as it can pseudoscience. Pseudoscience is a claim or practice that is presented as scientific but lacks evidence, cannot be tested, does not adhere to a valid scientific method, or has other qualities of "bad science". Finally there is superstition which is a belief in the supernatural without proof other than often anecdotal evidence, feelings, etc. Fringe science, as you can see, is nestled right in the middle.

Once upon a time the people of earth though the sun revolved around the earth and not the other way around. People also once thought that the historical city of Troy existed only in stories. The big bang theory and idea that the Norse once visited the North American continent are all examples of theories that were developed on the fringe. Just because a thought seems revolutionary or, to some, unsound, does not make it impossible. In fact, many, many things that we now all know to be true developed on the fringes of science and thinks to the effort of those passionate about what they do we live in a more enlightened world.

This is when fringe science is at its best. Of course there are problems, especially when scientists allow their beliefs to dictate the methods by which they test their theory or when, even in light of concrete evidence, they refuse to accept reality. This is why tireless testing and retesting is necessary to foster an environment in which theories can make their way to becoming facts. Those testing said theories must be willing to try as earnestly to disprove their theory as they do prove it. It is then, that the wonderful study and quest that is science, becomes a beautiful and useful thing we can all benefit from.