Antecedents of the Theory Movement

Abstract

This article traces the conceptual roots of the theory movement in educational administration. Ideas of Auguste Comte, father of positivism, and of the logical positivists are highlighted. How core concepts which shaped the theory movement were diffused into educational administration is documented. Finally, the paper sets forth implications for the future study of educational administration. The article is based on a paper presented toa UCEA-Universityof Wisconsin sponsored Career Develop ment Seminar held in memory of the late William J. Davis, former EAQ Editorial Board member, at Madison, Wisconsin, March 1980.