Classifying Natural and Social Scientific Theories

Abstract

A simple typology of scientific theories is developed which asks of any theory the Who, What, Why, Where and When (5W) questions. These guide the identification respectively of the type of agency, `action' (including attitudes), and decision-making process involved, the degree of generalizability of the theory, and the type of time path involved. This typology generally captures what commentators on particular theories think most important. It thus becomes a handy device for identifying the essence of different theories. Where most natural science theories, as well as evolutionary theories in both natural and social science, would fit in the typology is briefly examined. Then several key types of social theory - action theory, systems theory/ functionalism, psychoanalytic theory, symbolic interactionism, rational choice theory, and phenomenology - are placed within the typology. The typology aids in understanding both disagreements within theoretical `camps' and similarities and differences across theories and theorists. Defining natural and social scientific theories in terms of efforts to engage the 5W questions overcomes many problems associated with existing definitions. Theorists are guided to provide clear answers to each of the five questions. In this way, the typology encourages theoretical development. In particular, it identifies the full range of theoretical possibilities, and encourages a search for the breadth of applicability of different theories. It guides us to see theories as potentially complementary rather than necessarily competing.