Once an observation or group of observations is made, a hypothesis is formulated. That hypothesis is then tested. If the predicted result is observed then the hypothesis is supported by the test. If the findings from the test are inconsistent with the hypothesis, the hypothesis is weakened or even destroyed. And if the hypothesis is destroyed you don't ignore the observation that destroyed it, you simply understand that the hypothesis is NOT a fact.

Figuratively speaking, of course:) the earth is round! It has been proven to be so. However, society is plagued by the Alan Seibel's, and John Chambers' of the world, who so wish to prove that it is flat, and hold to their erroneous OPINION as they like to put it.