Methodology of Theory

INTRODUCTION

This is a how-to-do book. In it I shall present the methods of building theory. But the methods will not be bound to mindless routine, rather to intelligent usage. By setting forth the methods in the context of the logic of theoretical knowledge, understanding of the methods will be emphasized throughout. One does not build 'theory from scratch, for theorizing has been going on at least since the time of the PreSocratics. That means, of course, that theorizing was going on before 470 B.C., the probable birth date of Socrates. Theory is built upon extant theory. Consequently, to build theory one must be able to criticize theory. One must be able to achieve an understanding of extant theory and to judge what needs to be done, if anything, to the theory. Only then is one in a position to make constructive moves. To be able to achieve an understanding of extant theory ,is to be able to describe dnd interpret it. ...