Scientists first make observations that raise a particular question. In order to explain the observed phenomenon, they develop a number of possible explanations, or hypotheses. This is the inductive part of science, observing and constructing plausible arguments for why an event occurred.
As indicated earlier, the Bible does not fix the age of the earth, contrary to the claims of Answers in Genesis. Historically, their claim comes from the work of James Ussher, Bishop in the Church of Ireland, from 1625 to 1656.
Using this method, we arrive at an age for Earth of approximately 6,000 years. Itâs important to realize that the Bible nowhere explicitly states the age of the earthâthis is a calculated number. Another method of determining the age of the earth is to use resources such as radiometric (carbon) dating, geologic cycles, and so forth. By comparing different methods, and seeing if they align, scientists attempt to determine how old the planet is. This is the method used to arrive at an age for Earth of about 4 to 5 billion years. Itâs important to realize that there is no means to directly measure the age of the earthâthis is a calculated number. Both of these methods of determining the age of the earth have potential drawbacks.