Book contents
- Developing Theories in the Social Sciences
- Methodological Tools in the Social Sciences
- Developing Theories in the Social Sciences
- Copyright page
- Contents
- Tables
- Preface: Do We Need Theories?
- 1 What Is a Theory?
- 2 Concepts
- 3 Logical Sentences and Truth
- 4 Types of Reasoning and Definitions
- 5 Testing Theory
- 6 Developing a Theory of Status Effects
- 7 Public Good Theory and Research: Public Good Theory and Research
- 8 Avoiding Common Missteps
- Index
- References
8 - Avoiding Common Missteps
Published online by Cambridge University Press: aN Invalid Date NaN
Book contents
- Developing Theories in the Social Sciences
- Methodological Tools in the Social Sciences
- Developing Theories in the Social Sciences
- Copyright page
- Contents
- Tables
- Preface: Do We Need Theories?
- 1 What Is a Theory?
- 2 Concepts
- 3 Logical Sentences and Truth
- 4 Types of Reasoning and Definitions
- 5 Testing Theory
- 6 Developing a Theory of Status Effects
- 7 Public Good Theory and Research: Public Good Theory and Research
- 8 Avoiding Common Missteps
- Index
- References
Summary
Mistakes and missteps in theory development and testing are inevitable but there are ways to decrease them. One way to detect potential problems is to outline the definitions, scope conditions, assumptions and finally derivations. Stripping down the theory to the simplest form helps spot definitions that are not precise or derivations that are not sound. Once done, it becomes easier to diagnose problems and think through potential solutions. Another way to find potential problems is to talk through your ideas with others—especially those you know to be skeptical. Having to explain your logic and then your potential tests with others can provide invaluable feedback and can make you rethink aspects of your formulations.
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- Developing Theories in the Social SciencesMethods and Applications, pp. 106 - 118Publisher: Cambridge University PressPrint publication year: 2026
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