A Scientific Theory is The One That Can Be Disproved

Image source: Flickr (LSE Library)

This might sound contrary to common sense. Normally, we give credence to a theory if it proves something but modern philosophy took a new turn here. Regarded as one of the greatest philosophers of 20th century, Karl Popper presented his theory of Falsifiability which gave the world a whole new vision of scientific theories.

For instance if someone asks "Does God exist?" then according to Karl Popper, this isn't a scientific theory as there is no way we can disprove it. Better still, another example I found in Dailymail post by Julian Baggini is as follows:

Similarly, you could argue that the theory that God does what is best for us is not scientific, because whatever happens, believers insist it must be for the greater good. God's goodness may be a theological claim but it's not evidential. 

It sounds rational. There's no way we can prove that whatever God does is for our own good because whatever the reason put against it, the believer will insist that the it might be for some greater good. Going further, the idea of Heaven persuades every believer that the ultimate good might be a perfect life in the midst of God's blessings in heaven. So, as Julian Baggini said, "God's goodness may be a theological claim but it's not evidential." stands correct and I think the same.
Having said that, it does not mean that the theories that can't follow the Principle of Falsifiability should be rejected or neglected. Come to think of it, many branches of social sciences can't even be considered scientific if we follow Popper but they are vital for human advancements. It's just philosophy moulding the thoughts and perception. We can't assume that only scientific theories give a pat on the back of humanity. Feelings, beliefs and their study is a foundation which supported mankind for centuries. If not for them, the world wouldn't have found it's pace by now. Myths, however non-scientific, bring out the most authentic nature of humanity. Though covered in folds of lies and secrecy, myths turn up pretty amazing stuff if you look deep.