POLS 2940 Lecture 4: Types of Theories
11 Jan 2019
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Document Summary
What is a theory: ideas connection to action, proposed for someone and for some purpose, contained in a historical context. They emerge as a result of something: attempt to make reality clearer. What does a theory do: explain motivations, understand why the issues emerged. What variables had a hand in creating these circumstances. What variables can be changed in the future. Comparisons between outcomes: prescribe what should be done next. What are types of theories: macro level theories. Address the state system and global phenomenon: middle level theories. Concerned with institutions and regional associations: micro level theories. Key debates / issues in theories: conflict, cooperation, levels of analysis.
