Why is "empirical evidence that permits assessment" of a theory so critical for actually "advancing our understanding," rather than merely proposing an idea?

Synthesized answer

The book "Human Problem Solving" aims to advance our understanding of how humans think by putting forth a theory of human problem solving [Passage 1]. Crucially, this theory is accompanied by "a body of empirical evidence that permits assessment of the theory" [Passage 1]. This empirical evidence is critical for actually advancing our understanding, rather than merely proposing an idea, because it allows for the assessment of the theory [Passage 1].

The passages indicate that the inclusion of empirical evidence is what allows for the assessment of the theory, which in turn contributes to advancing our understanding [Passage 1]. The passages do not explicitly elaborate on *why* this assessment process, facilitated by empirical evidence, is so critical for advancing understanding beyond simply proposing an idea.

Synthesized from the book passages below. Chat with the book on Feynman for follow-up.