Theory

Theory Definition

A theory is fundamentally a systematic and general attempt to explain phenomena, which in the context of sociology refers to understanding the social world around us. In a broader sense, it can be understood as an abstract general account of a particular area of reality, often involving the formulation of general concepts. Within sociology, theories are advanced by scholars from specific perspectives and exist on various levels, ranging from high-level frameworks down to specific taxonomies.

Formal vs. Loose Theory

In the context of social science, the term ‘theory’ can be used in two related ways. In a strict sense, it denotes a set of hypotheses or propositions linked by logical or mathematical arguments designed to explain an area of empirical reality or a type of phenomenon. Conversely, in a looser sense, it refers to any abstract general account of a domain, typically involving the use of general concepts.

Dimensions of Sociological Theory

Sociological theories can be distinguished along several dimensions:

• Schools and Frameworks: Theories are often grouped by major approaches, which include terms such as schools, paradigms, orientations, and traditions. These forms of theorising tend to be open to interpretation and immune to falsification, contrasting with more rigorously constructed formal theories. Some argue that the term ‘theory’ should be reserved for these tightly constructed forms.
• Temporal Progression: Theories can be categorised based on when they emerged and their impact on the discipline’s body of knowledge. Historians of sociology often interpret later developments as reactions against preceding theories.
• Evaluation and Rigour: A crucial dimension is the extent to which a theory has been developed and evaluated against scientific standards. The ultimate goal in sociological theory should be to develop explanations that are general, precise, and systematically evaluated within the empirical world.