What is a theory? LO3703

Dave Birren, MB-5, 608-267-2442 (BIRRED@dnr.state.wi.us)
Mon, 13 Nov 1995 13:43 CST

Replying to LO3659 --

I'd suggest the definition of theory that I heard in college several
lifetimes ago: an explanation of observable phenomena. Or, as I like to
translate it, a statement about the world that accounts for what's
happening within it. How you define the world and the rigor with which
you identify the relationships among its components are critical. Too
many hypotheses (guesses about relationships) are passed off as theories.

Back to the world of guesses, suppositions, assumptions, and totally
unreasonable expectations....

--
David E. Birren                          Phone:   (608)267-2442
Wisconsin Dept. of Natural Resources     Fax:     (608)267-3579
Bureau of Management & Budget            E-mail:  birred@dnr.state.wi.us

"Our future is to be food - Wisdom's gift - for what comes after us." -- Saadi (Neil Douglas-Klotz)