Continental Drift and Plate Tectonics Throughout history, the hypothesis of continental drift has been questioned and criticized until a valid theory is accepted by consensus, now known as plate tectonic theory. The scientific method is a process involving collecting data and researching a set of principles to test ideas or hypotheses such as continental drift. It is through these established principles that any form of subjectivity and bias is avoided, which could potentially distort the results during the evaluation. It is also "self-correcting" and flexible in that current theories can be modified based on new research and evidence such as the theory of plate tectonics. This is what makes science reliable, because this approach provides a scientific explanation, distinguishing it from ordinary subjective approaches (Understanding Science nd). The scientific method can transform a belief or superstition into a scientific opinion. For example, the hypothesis of continental drift, with some modifications, is now called plate tectonics. The continental drift hypothesis began to arise in the early 19th century after geologists noticed similarities in Earth's rock formation. The continents were also a geographic correspondence; fitting together like a puzzle. Austrian geologist Eduard Suess proposed a theory explaining the similarities between fossils and animals from around the world across Gondwanaland, a supercontinent believed to have covered much or all of the earth. As the Earth cooled, it contracted, causing its surface area to decrease and thus developing mountains through the "wrinkles", conveying the image of the Earth as a "drying apple" (Oreskes 1999, pp. 4). Suess also believed that the Earth consisted of a large, continuous crust, which was a very promising hypothesis at the time. With our increased knowledge of ocean floor configuration and concepts of seafloor spreading, it has provided us with evidence of continental drift. The theory of plate tectonics was gradually accepted through the evolution of scientific thought and the acceptance by which the idea of ​​moving continents improved the understanding of earthquakes and therefore the technology to minimize them the effects. It was clear that as Wegener had presented his theories, most geologists had delayed his statements calling them vulnerable, because his commitment and dedication had somehow prevented him from accepting the impossibility of his thoughts (Lake 1923). However, it was his persistence that encouraged the birth of plate tectonics, encompassing both continental drift and seafloor spreading.): 1452