Scientific Progress

[Pepper]

Can you really have a theory and then still judge evidence in a neutral way?

I think you can, though it takes a certain kind of mindset and scientific rigour that most people don't have. So while I do agree with you that theory-led research is dangerous, I can't say it's a "guaranteed" recipe for disaster. At the same time I don't think it's a coincidence that all the best (in my opinion) Voynich research is coming from people who don't have a strong attachment to any theory. 

I have seen people criticised for not having a theory as it's a "cop out" or cowardice. I find that a really strange mindset.