What type of evidence supports a given theory?

Inculpatory evidence is the type of evidence that supports or establishes a theory, particularly in the context of proving someone's guilt in a legal framework. This form of evidence can directly link an individual to a criminal act or support the prosecution's narrative regarding the case. For example, photographs, witness statements, or physical findings that show a suspect's presence at a crime scene are all examples of inculpatory evidence.

While circumstantial evidence can also play a role in supporting a theory, it often requires an inference rather than providing direct proof. Circumstantial evidence can suggest that a particular event occurred based on the circumstances surrounding it, but it does not inherently support a theory as strongly as inculpatory evidence does. Exculpatory evidence serves the opposite purpose, as it can prove someone's innocence or mitigate their culpability. Evidence of tampering indicates that there may have been some manipulation of the evidence, potentially undermining its integrity and not providing support for any theory. Thus, inculpatory evidence is distinct in its clear function to reinforce a particular theory in the context of a case.