Theory
A scientific theory is a set of related assumptions that’s allows scientists to use logical deductive reasoning to formulate testable hypothesis. This definition needs further explanation.
First, a theory is a set of assumptions. A single assumption can never fill all requirements of an adequate theory. Second, a theory is a set of related assumptions.
The third key word in definition is assumptions. The components of theory are not proven facts in the sense that their validity has been absolutely established. They are however accepted as they are true.
Fourth, Logical deductive reasoning is used by the researcher to formulate hypothesis. The tenets of a theory must be stated with sufficient precision and logical consistency to permit to deduce clearly stated hypothesis.
The final part of the definition includes the qualifier testable. Unless a hypothesis can be tested in some way, it is worthless. (Theory should not be confused with Philosophy, speculation, hypothesis or taxonomy although it is related to each of these items)
What makes a theory useful?
A useful theory has a natural and dynamic interaction with research data. Six criteria determine the usefulness of a scientific theory.
A useful theory
1) Generates Research: The useful theory should be logical and testable. It should be able to stimulate and guide further research. A useful theory will generate two different kinds of research: Descriptive research and Hypothesis testing.
2) Is Falsifiable: This doesn’t mean that theory should be disapproveable. But that it should be designed in a way so that it can be proved or disapproved at any time.
3) Organizes data: A useful theory should be able to organize data that are not incompatible with each other. A useful theory organizes data in some meaningful way.
4) Guides action: A fourth criteria of a useful theory is its ability to guide the practitioner over the rough courses of day-to-day problems.
5) Is internally consistent: An internally consistent theory is one whose Components are logically compatible. A good theory will use concepts and terms that have been clearly and operationally defined.
6) Is parsimonious: A useful theory should be simple, clear and straightforward. Theories should explain the facts with only a few core ideas. That is they tend to be parsimonious.
A scientific theory is a set of related assumptions that’s allows scientists to use logical deductive reasoning to formulate testable hypothesis. This definition needs further explanation.
The third key word in definition is assumptions. The components of theory are not proven facts in the sense that their validity has been absolutely established. They are however accepted as they are true.
Fourth, Logical deductive reasoning is used by the researcher to formulate hypothesis. The tenets of a theory must be stated with sufficient precision and logical consistency to permit to deduce clearly stated hypothesis.
The final part of the definition includes the qualifier testable. Unless a hypothesis can be tested in some way, it is worthless. (Theory should not be confused with Philosophy, speculation, hypothesis or taxonomy although it is related to each of these items)
What makes a theory useful?
A useful theory has a natural and dynamic interaction with research data. Six criteria determine the usefulness of a scientific theory.
A useful theory
1) Generates Research: The useful theory should be logical and testable. It should be able to stimulate and guide further research. A useful theory will generate two different kinds of research: Descriptive research and Hypothesis testing.
2) Is Falsifiable: This doesn’t mean that theory should be disapproveable. But that it should be designed in a way so that it can be proved or disapproved at any time.
3) Organizes data: A useful theory should be able to organize data that are not incompatible with each other. A useful theory organizes data in some meaningful way.
4) Guides action: A fourth criteria of a useful theory is its ability to guide the practitioner over the rough courses of day-to-day problems.
5) Is internally consistent: An internally consistent theory is one whose Components are logically compatible. A good theory will use concepts and terms that have been clearly and operationally defined.
6) Is parsimonious: A useful theory should be simple, clear and straightforward. Theories should explain the facts with only a few core ideas. That is they tend to be parsimonious.
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