Abstract
The role theory plays in research work cannot be over-emphasized. A theory that is apt gives direction to research work in explaining, organizing, analyzing, and predicting phenomenon and showing their relationships in order to enhance understanding. Despite these roles played by theory, upcoming scholars and students many at times fail to use theory that is apt in their research work, while some skip to adopt any theory in their research, even when it is necessary to adopt one. Thus, leading to disjointed and poor research work. Lack of good theory and/or lack of its correct application instantly de-links the relationship and blurs the understanding of research questions, variables, and hypotheses, which theory integrates to give a coherent and holistic view of phenomenon, and answering the question of “why” the phenomenon is the “way” it is. Explanatory and qualitative research approaches were employed. Secondary data were collected from books, journal articles; internet materials, etc. were used in analyzing the roles theory plays in research work. The findings are (1) that the purpose of theory is to explain, describe, analyze, and predict phenomenon to aid understanding (2) a good theory that is apt and well applied gives clarity and logicality to the problem understudy (3) theory in research is like a bridge that links concepts, variables, and hypotheses. The paper recommends among other things that scholars/teachers should devote more chapters or contribute more papers in journal specifically on theory.
Introduction of theory in research and learning
The word “theory” is a noun word, an English language extraction used basically in research and learning for the purpose of giving meaning to abstractions and/or concepts in order to explain and aid understanding of phenomenon by making generalization of proven facts. Theory helps in assigning meaning to various social constructs, that is, in real world situations by describing their interrelatedness with observable phenomena and their variables. It is a systematic way of organizing and building body of knowledge and viewing the world around us by identifying facts and realities. Theory interprets, strengthens, clarifies, and differentiates the known from the unknown thereby helping in recognizing and coordinating our interpretation of various social phenomena and changes inherent in them. Bhataacherjee (2012) clarifies that theory explains and predicts through building correlations and causations—(cause-effect) relationships, respectively.
Theory according to Earl Babbie (2013) is an organized explanation for the purpose of observations regarding a specific aspect of life. Chukwuemeka (2002) posits that “a theory synthesizes isolated bits of empirical data into a conceptual scheme of wider applicability.” Theory explains why things are the way they are based on findings and in making propositions among concepts and variables. Theory is a reasoned statement of fact with logicality as corroborated by Sutton and Staw (1995) argument that theory principally provides answer to the question of “why,” thereby explaining causation and its result (effect) over a specific period of time. Speaking on the logicality of theory, David and Elias (2018) attested that “a theory is a logically interrelated set of propositions about empirical reality.” Therefore, the intellectual mechanism for the extension of frontiers of knowledge in social science is anchored on theory. Thus, theory building advances the search for intellectual knowledge, discovery of facts, explaining and predicting occurrences based on tested, and observed empirical data with validities.
Theory enhances understanding thereby guiding in making informed decisions about seeking knowledge, verifying knowledge, application of knowledge, advancing frontiers of knowledge, and informing others. Theory gives meaning and clarity to our knowledge of facts by drawing generalization and values to concepts, hypotheses, models, and variables in social science research. Asika (1999) articulates that theory coherently contains constructs/concepts, definitions and propositions (hypotheses), which are integrated to form a structured perspective of a phenomenon, indicating connectivity between concepts and variables of the phenomenon that describes and forecasts the phenomenon. The unambiguous pattern of seeking and consuming knowledge, and informing others are unarguably obtained within the template of theory and practice. Thus, the first methodology in the quest to advance the frontiers of knowledge is theorizing based on the existing phenomena obtained from tested and proven generalized observation of the real situation of things over time. Theory according to Igwe (2007) is a cause-effect systematic description of a phenomenon and prediction of its future development. This explanation of theory touches at the nucleus of research or scientific investigation which is a systematically organized method of seeking knowledge, which is logically embarked on to discover cause-effect relationships.
To differentiate between theory and practice, we align that a confirmed theory is a principle (Ile, 1999). Theory is formulated based on discovered facts which their applications become their practical values in solving problems, which is profoundly called practice. Every practice originates from or is based on a confirmed theory. Thus, there cannot be practice without first the development of a tested and proved theory guiding the practical aspect which is often known as principles, procedures, and laws on the applications of practice. A practice so to say, is the application of theory. Moreover, theory provides guidelines for the actual practice of any discipline. For example, for public administrators to do well in the management of employees and organizations, they must have good knowledge of the theories of human relations, theories of industrial relations, theories of leadership, and theories of motivation which when understood, the real applications of the knowledge inherent in them toward managing a workforce and running a successful organization is then the practice of the theories itself. However, it is the knowledge of the theories that facilitate good practice of a disciple, thus without the knowledge of the theories, they cannot practice result-oriented management of employees and organizations.
Theory generates knowledge and stimulates formation of new ideas thereby directing and determining the course and flow of practice based on what a theory discovers about a phenomenon. Therefore, practice depends on theory and its findings. A theory studies and unravels hidden facts about a phenomenon thereby indicating what to do with the phenomenon in solving human problem which is the actual practice of a discipline. Hence theory shapes and influences the actual practice of any discipline. Practice of any discipline revolves on the available theories. Theory guides practice and determines the how, the what, and the why in the practice. For example, the earliest theories in public administration that are classified into classical and neo-classical theories underpins the practice of organizations by exposing if an organization is wired with the believe in the assumption that workers are motivated by financial incentives/rewards, or that workers are motivated by social factors like emotions, good working environment and relationship etc. (Nwizu, 2010).
Theory as an abstraction that explains and predicts a phenomenon evolves from theorizing, which is the mental, logical, analytical, and coherent search for answers that explain the why, the how, and the what about a phenomenon in order to solve problem in society. Theory is end product of a theorizing exercise when publicly tested and accepted as valid in explaining and predicting phenomenon, thereby enhancing understanding and solving problem in society. Theorizing is often associated with a mental and academic search for solutions to social problems which when found and accepted as valid now becomes a theory—an abstraction that explains and predicts phenomenon discovered from theorization exercise.
The result of theorizing paves way for conceptualization, modeling, and hypothesizing (drawing hypothesis) from variables, mapping out laws in explaining causations and effects that proffer solutions known as practice (practical). Therefore, seeking knowledge, research and learning is jointly theory and practice oriented activities in which the sequence is clearly depicted that theory comes before practice. In other words, theory is the supporting structure or skeletal framework upon which research in social science revolves. Thus the application of the result from the scientific enquiry based on the empirical data gathered in solving or preventing problem becomes practice (practical). This is evident in the centralized and generalized functions theory building contributes to the body of knowledge in research and teaching and learning. The goal of any theory according to Cohen (1968) cited in Ezeh and Elias (2017) is to clarify a phenomenon that happened bearing in mind the problems it generated or may generate due to it. Ikeanyibe (2014) affirmed that “the primary goal of scientific theory is to aid understanding of facts or reality.”
It is against the foregoing background that we now turn to the definitions of theory by examining few of the available literature on the concept of theory. The essence of leveraging on the various definitions of theory by different scholars is to deepen our thought process to be easily acquainted with what theory is all about or what theory does, its apt in application, and nexus in providing a wider view in research, as the general objective of this paper. A popular definition of theory was given by Kerlinger (1973) as a “set of interrelated constructs (concepts), definition, and propositions that present a systematic view of phenomena by specifying relations among variables with the purpose of explaining and predicting the phenomenon.” According to Obasi (1999), a theory is a group of related empirical generalizations or a proven relationship between facts or variables. It is theoretic posture of a research that gives credence and support to the findings of the research by showing the connectedness between various variables in proving or disapproving hypotheses and aligning with the answers of research questions. Theory is like a window or magnifying lens through which the underlining assumptions of research is verified, proved, and accepted as a solution to addressing the problem understudy. Chukwuemeka (2002) sees theory as harmonized group of propositions with the purpose to describe a particular occurrence.
Theories are analytical devices for comprehending, describing and forecasting regarding a particular thing (Mbah, 2014). Real world problems or situations that require theorizing to develop theories for their explications to aid understanding of the society better and why things happen the way they do are myriad. Thus we live with theories shaping the world around us in our homes, offices, churches, schools, markets, parks, eateries, and everywhere. Onuoha (2008) posits that “everyone uses theories, whether he or she knows it or not.” So theories are inescapable social reality that shapes our environment, therefore, the more attention we pay to understanding and applying theories in solving problems of concern, the better for us. The abstract nature of theory does not negative its existence and importance in building our world view about any subject matter. Onuoha (2008) sees theory as a lens through which we perceive things with its magnifying functionality. “Theory, an assumption or system of assumptions, accepted principles, and rules of procedure based on limited information or knowledge, devised to analyze, predict, or otherwise explain the nature or behavior of a specified set of phenomena; abstract reasoning” (Encarta, 2009).
Importance of theory
Theory serves so many functions or uses both in learning and practice. This is why all course of study in the field of social science are tied to theories that are useful in explaining realities in those fields. For examples, the study of public administration has its own theories like theory of bureaucracy, scientific management theory, administrative theory, general system theory, behavioral theories, human relations theory etc. Major concepts in each field of study have theories used in explaining their realities. For examples, major concepts in public administration have theories that explain phenomena in which they exist like the concept of motivation has its own theories like hierarchy of needs theory, theories X and Y, two factors theory, valence-expectancy theory etc. while leadership as a concept has the following theories like transformation theory, situation theory, great man theory, etc. that explain circumstances around the concepts. Theories are importance, and thus, are studied according to Stoner and Freedman (1992) cited in Ile (1999) because theories shape our views of reality, theories guide decisions-making, and serves as sources of new ideas. Theory is the epicenter of research in social science and learning in general. Ile (1999) affirmed that a confirmed theory can be said to become a principle.
Generally, theory describes, explains, analyzes, and predicts for the purpose of aiding understanding of reality. It guides knowledge inquiry, and shapes practice or application of knowledge based on the known that is discovered from theoretical and empirical researches. Theory organizes facts for coherent understanding of various forms of existence of realities in our world, such as stated by Earl Babbie (2013) that macro and micro theories groups phenomena into wider and narrow spectrums of categories in application. Theory systematically manages knowledge, justifies acceptance or rejection of our curiosity based on their merit or demerit. Theory according to McGregor (1960) cited in Ezeani (2005) guides practice, and both are indivisibly intertwined based on the proposition, generalization and hypotheses they command. Igwe (2007) observed that theory is the greatest form of generalization in scientific enquiry.
Methodology
The method implicit in this study is explanatory and qualitative. The source of data is purely based on secondary means that were collected from textbooks written by experts in research methodology in social science; journal articles, etc were all aggregated and contextually analyzed by fishing and detailing out the role of theory in research as a fundamental principle upon which research in social science revolves on, with concrete examples in the field of public administration, by relying on the classical and neo-classical theories in public administration to provide diagrammatic explanations of how theories drive research and are at the center of research in social sciences. The classical theories pinpointed are the Scientific Management theory of Frederick W. Taylor popularly known as Taylorism, the Administrative theory of Henri Fayol that emerged out of the popular 14 principles of administration/management, and the Bureaucratic theory of Max Webber that emerged from his studies of society and complex organizations regarding power, authority and rules. On the neo-classical theories are the works of Elton Mayo that anchors on Human Relations theory, behavioral theories like Abraham Maslow’s theory of the Hierarchy of Human Needs, and the Hertzberg’s Motivation-hygiene theory.
Basic assumptions and philosophy about theory
Theory gives clarity to a phenomenon by describing, explaining, analyzing, interpreting, and making prediction about the phenomenon.
Theory guides the direction of scientific inquiry, that is, research begins with theory, revolves around theory, and ends with theory. Also, research at times ends in development of a new theory.
Phenomenon do not exist in isolation, hence theory systematically organizes them into a coherent view for clear understanding and for broader application.
Theory harmonizes the various concepts, variables, models, and hypotheses found in a phenomenon by showing their relationships (cause-effect) to enable prediction.
Theory answers the why questions, that is, providing answers to why things happen or why things are the way they are. It answers fundamental questions in research.
Theory helps in making generalization about phenomena.
Theory shapes our thoughts in making decisions for and against a proposition or phenomenon
Theory gives a wider understanding of the real world
Theorization in public administration
Having painstakingly elaborated theory to this point, it is now expected that students, early researchers, and upcoming scholars should be able to identify, analyze, and apply theories aptly in solving societal problems. Thereafter, they should be able to develop or propound (theorize) their own theories that would be widely accepted thereby solving problems and contributing to building knowledge or expanding the frontiers of knowledge in the society. And when these are achieved, the purpose of writing this paper has adequately seen the light of the day. To theorize simply means to formulate/propound a theory that will solve problem for humanity, by explaining reality. To theorize also is to harmonize the various widely scattered and isolated and observable variables into a generalized perspective that captures a phenomenon that its occurrence needs explanation in order to understand the intriguing realities in it. Mbah (2014) posits that to theorize is to develop a body of knowledge, that is, to explain things in order to aid understanding. Theorizing entails envisaging and speculating by aggregating and assembling relationships and variables between causation and result/effect in order to specify the effect of both relationships and variables on the other, with the view to establish facts. In theorizing, that is, finding explanations and solutions to real world situations/problems, attempts are made to correctly describe and predict appropriately the links among phenomena in the physical, social and psychological worlds (Nwizu, 1997). Theorizing involves the application of intellectual energy using scientific method of enquiry to gather data, explain, describe, and predict phenomena in the society. A theorist propounds a theory that explains reality, and does not create it (Mbah, 2014).
Relationships among concept, variable, hypothesis, model, and theory
There is strong and inseparable nexus existing among the above mentioned devices used in social science research. The epicenter of the relationship among them is theory which controls and determines their applications and relevance in a research work. This is mainly because concept, variable, hypotheses and model merely explain a phenomenon while theory goes beyond that by virtue of explaining, analyzing, interpreting, and predicting facts at the same time, based on empirical data verified. Theory has more explanatory status and value than others. Others clarifies phenomenon while theory investigates phenomenon and proves it valid or invalid with observable data systematically collected, analyzed and verified through hypotheses. A theory often contains concepts, variables, validates hypothesis, and at times models at the same time while others (concepts, models, variables and hypothesis) do not contain theory and thus, do not have the status of a theory such as prediction. Rather a theory is used in explaining and giving meaning to them, showing their connectedness. Ikeanyibe (2014) describes the relationship among concept, hypothesis, model, variable, law, and paradigm as “scientific tools related to theory.”
A concept is an abstraction or word that describes a phenomenon. It does not go beyond ascribing meaning to a phenomenon. For examples, motivation, price, election, conflict, power, organization, government, labor, administration, bureaucracy, etc. are well known concepts used in describing or explaining a phenomenon, to give meaning and aid understanding of reality. According to Chukwuemeka (2002) concept describes an abstraction designed by generalization from specifics. Every concept elucidates, the abstract nature of concept necessitates its interpretation to ensure understanding. Concept cannot be seen nor touched, thus its abstract pattern of reasoning in assigning and expressly giving meaning is to make sense in identifying and recognizing realities (Eboh, 1998). Concept according to Asika N (1999) “is our perception of reality to which we have attached some word labels for the purpose of identification.” He further clarified a reality by saying that a reality is a phenomenon that is in existence and is proved empirically. Thus concept is not a mere word, it goes beyond wordings; it is a word of reality that guides and shapes perception from abstraction toward identification and understanding of phenomenon. Concept has a characteristic of distinguishing one phenomenon from the other, not just ascribing name to a reality but systematically detailing features that qualifies such phenomenon as such. From sociological perspective, the concept of “society” is popular and broadly used as a unit of analysis in sociology, thereby cutting across several variables, models, and theories in sociology. For example, the concept of “society” in sociology has variables like traditional society, agricultural society, industrial society, etc. with two main models known as developed and underdeveloped societies, whereas the theories associated with society are symbolic interactionism theory, structural-functionalism theory, system theory, role theory, social control theory, etc. all tap from the concept of society in their explanations and predictions.
Certain concepts behave or assume the posture of theory by commanding high relevant explanations with their specific values and reasons. That is, why the concept is being looked at as theory. For a concept to graduate into a theory, it must vividly capture enough explanation and give justifiable and convincing reasons why things happen, and/or why things are the way they are with predictions. Concepts mainly explains but when a concept goes beyond explanation of abstraction to creating concrete interpretation of the why, how, where, and when of phenomenon, it has perfectly analyzed the phenomenon and predicted the circumstances and changes surrounding it thereby becoming a theory due to the sequence of intergradations from cause to effect that generalized the phenomenon. A few concepts graduate into theory like the concept of “sustainable development” which is a well established theory that focuses on the wise use, preservation and improvement of environmental, economic, and socio-political capital stocks of a nation to satisfy the needs of the present and the future generations without threat (World Commission on Environment, 1987).
A good theory does not only contain concepts but also contains variables, and/or at times models. For example, the variables in sustainable development theory are environment, economy, socio-political factors, and other capital stocks of a nation. While the human capital development theory has the concept (human capital), and the models like education, skills and training, health, food and nutritious values available to the national population are the models of human capital development theory, which are the diverse trends and perspectives that human capital development theory can be achieved, focused on, and manifests. Again, basic resource theory of rural development is identified with models such as export-led model; diffusion model, growth center model, high input pay off model, etc as approaches to rural development traceable to basic resource theory (Obodoechi, 2009; Ohagwu, 2010).
A model is a speculation that explains distinct elements or characteristics of a theory. Obasi (1999), defines a model as “an abstraction from reality that is intended to order and simplify the view of that reality.” A model specifies and categorizes the qualities make-up of a theory thereby explaining the theory further to gain varied insights. Model explains one/two various related components of a phenomenon while theory explains a phenomenon holistically for deeper understanding. Model is a specific element of a phenomenon that explains a reality while theory explains the reality itself by giving meaning to it through various interpretations and analysis. A theory at times contains a model, but a model does not contain a theory in terms of scope and level of operation. Models exist in other fields such as mathematical models which arise from Operations Research (OR) involving the use of mathematical techniques in decision-making, especially in complex organizations with large chains of production lines and other industrial activities with complexities. All models of mathematical nature are based on quantitative methods and analyses in decision making geared toward making optimum and informed business-operations decisions. Mathematical models offer practical examples in solving business operations problems like queuing theory, which Nwachukwu (2007) posit is used in determining the optimal utilization of a facility involving intermittent service. Other examples of mathematical models used in solving daily business operations problems in society are linear programming model, probability model, set model, simulation model, forecasting model, prototype etc offer practical solutions as the practical applications of the Operations Research (OR) theory.
For better understanding of model and theory, a theory is broader, more encompassing, and even absorbs the model itself. For example, Toyota has a product among its factory product lines of cars such as Toyota Camry, Toyota Corolla, etc. which each of the two cars has several models that are classified according to design, specific feature, and year of production or release to the market. However, Toyota Corolla with 2006 model is often related in terms of resemblance with another Toyota Corolla of 2007 or 2008 model with significant variations from both models (cars). The noticeable variations are the models uniqueness while the first Toyota Corolla car ever produced is the theory that explains what Toyota Corolla car is and does. Similarly, concept and model which theory contains are all explanatory tools used in describing reality for the purpose of understanding a phenomenon. However, theory offers higher explanatory value of phenomenon than concept, model, hypothesis, and even variable. Thus, the four have lower explanatory status than theory even though all of them explain phenomenon, but theory goes further to predict (Isaak, 1969).
On the other hand, concept and theory have different variables that can assume different factors in manifesting a given attribute for easy identification and categorization. Buchanan (1980) correctly defined variable as “a concept broken-down into a number of quantitative values or qualitative categories so that each member of a class of phenomenon may appropriately be assigned to a value or category.” In the same vein, Obasi (1999) defines variable as a concept that is liable to change in response to empirical measurement and observation. Examples of variable is “age” which varies or has variables such as 12 years, 23 years, 38 years, 61 years, and another example is “income” with variables as 50,000 naira or dollars, 100,000 naira or dollars, 200,000 naira or dollars etc. Note that a major characteristic of variable is that it changes, and can assume different compositions as explained above.
Hypothesis is more connected to variable, because it is hypothesis that tests variables to prove their validity or otherwise. Hypothesis touches and connects the variables and explains why each hypothesis should be adopted or rejected when tested. According to Eze and Agbo (2005) a hypothesis indicates the expectation of the researcher regarding the relationship between variables in the research. Therefore, hypothesis is a testable and provable, acceptable or rejectable statement or proposition subject to confirmation or nullification when exposed to empirical tests. Oguonu and Anugwom (2014) posit that hypothesis relates reality or variable to another. They further traced and linked the relationship between hypothesis and theory by stating that hypothesis is generated from the main theory shaping the research questions, and thus, essential in unraveling facts. Notably, research topic does not exist in isolation from hypothesis. Every research topic has dependent and independent variables it investigates. Thus hypothesis according to Yacob-Haliso (2016) is a proposition that establishes the relationship that exists between dependent and independent variables.
Hypotheses are amenable to proves. The essence of hypothesis according to Obi (2005) is to test its validity, which is a process that establishes a proposition or an answer through which a research problem is verified and finally accepted or rejected. Eze and Agbo (2005) agreed with other scholars on the tentative nature of hypothesis, but cautioned that its (hypothesis) formulation is the first critical step in establishing a right proposition to be tested. This is because a question seeking to establish a true proposition and is wrongly framed or misdirected would invariably result in answer that misleads or waters down the objective of the hypothesis in seeking to adopt a statement or to reject it. So objectivity and precision are the fundamentals in generating a hypothesis that will correctly address the assumed problem that it purports to provide answer to. Igwe (2007) attested that theory contains essential ingredients in explaining a specific level of knowledge, and carrying within it the laws, principles and hypotheses that elaborate issues at higher realm of analysis.
Considering the relationships among concept, variable, model, hypothesis, and theory, it is pertinent that researchers should have adequate knowledge of each concept which when understood makes a research work easier. This is because it is through concept that variables and other elements that form the body of the research are shaped into a collective and coherent perspective that guides scientific inquiry. One hardly knows variables in a concept without first knowing enough of the elements that constitutes the concepts in making it what it is. Therefore, knowing “what a concept is” as obtained will guarantee identification of “what a concept is not” and the elements that constitute the variables in it. So a concept well understood paves way for pointing out the variables and how they emerged from the concept. The same goes to hypothesis which draws strength from the ability to uphold or turn down a variable. Model often springs from theory, and all these relationships and interdependency when known make the research work easier in guiding the entire development and conclusion of the findings of a research coherently.
From the on-going explanations, it is apparent that a theory is a designed explanatory system that guides and unifies various components of research work into a coherent whole. A system according to Koontz et al. (1983) “is essentially an assemblage of things interconnected or interdependent, so as to form a complex unity.” Hence the systemic status and role of a theory lies in its ability to assemble the complexities (components) in concepts, variables, hypotheses, and at times models into a generalized whole in a specific application. A close look at Kerlinger (1973) popular definition of theory already quoted in this work is no doubt expressly in tandem with Koontz et al. (1983) definition of a system when juxtaposed. Thus we make bold to say that theory performs the work of a system in a research work by coordinating and explaining the diverse elements into a particular perspective.
The below diagrams (Figure 1 -5) are illustrations of the various nexus among research topic, concepts, variables, hypothesis, models, and theory with examples for lucidity purposes. Imperatively, it is noteworthy to mention that every research work has a problem it interrogates with intent to resolve or proffer solutions. Thus, the problem under investigation is given title in the name of “research topic” upon which the study makes inquiry about.
Correlating the various diagrams above, it is deduced that: Every research topic or problem under investigation has concept(s) Every concept has variables Every variable generates hypothesis Every hypothesis justifies or nullifies a variable Every model often has a theory it taps from, and Every theory harmonizes and cuts across the widely scattered concepts, variables, hypothesis, and at times models through the theory’s higher realm of explanatory networks and values in making informed generalizations and predictions.
Showing the flow chart among research topic, concepts, variables, hypothesis, models, and theory.
Showing details of exemplary flowchart relationships among research topic, concepts, variables, models, and theory, using “job satisfaction and employee motivation.”
Showing another detailed exemplary relationship among research topic, concepts, variables, models, and theory, using “organization.”
Showing exemplary relationships among research topic, concepts, variables, and theory, using “staffing.”
Showing exemplary relationships among research topic, concepts, variables, and models, using, “Job.”
Worthy of mention is that every concept and variable must have indicators, that is, evidence of the existence of such concept and variable in concrete, measurable, specific, and observable terms of reality. Indicators are powerful proves tested to show or justify the existence of reality/phenomenon in real world. Believe in the reality or existence of concepts or variables lie in the provability of their indicators. For example, the concept of motivation has indicators such as good salary, conducive work environment, high morale, promotion, high productivity, low turnover rate, etc. are the proves, concrete evidence and realities to be ascertained as indicators or pointers of motivation before one can truly say that Mr. A or Mr. B in this or that organization is motivated or not motivated.
Notably, what justifies or nullifies a variable lies in the existence or non-existence of indicators. Thus, variables are mainly voided due to lack of indicators to show or prove their existence within the context of the research work, as applied by the researcher. Another name for indicators are indexes/indices as popularly used by global organizations like United Nations (UN) agencies in ranking the outcomes of their research report as it affect many countries around the globe. For example, rape has indicators such as use of force or threat of force, lack of consent, resistance overpowered, forceful penetration, etc (Onuoha, 2019). At global scene, poverty or underdevelopment as concept has indicators like hunger, low GDP, poor human capital development, low life span, violent social conflicts, high death rate, illiteracy, etc. To understand any concept or variable, look out for the indicators or indices. Also note that the indicators/indices could be called measures or determinants, depending on the researcher’s choice of words.
How to theorize
One of the most difficult things to do in the academics is theory formulation/propounding, especially popular theories that stand the test of times thereby cutting across ages such as Marxist theory of Dialectic Materialism, Bureaucratic theory of Marx Weber, Thomas Aquinas theory of Just Price, Adams Smith theory of Absolute Advantage, Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs theory, Elton Mayo Human Relations theory, Scientific Management theory of Frederick Winslow Taylor, Administrative theory of Henri Fayol, General System theory of Ludwig von B. etc. are various theories propounded by theorists many years ago, which are still relevant in offering explanations of phenomena in today’s world thereby proving that theorists don’t die; rather they live forever as long as their theories are apt in explaining and predicting phenomena surrounding human existence in the social milieu.
Moreover, to theorize or develop/propound/formulate a theory; one has to fit into these conditions by manifesting most or all of the attributes stated below: there must be a concern or problem bordering one, with willingness to provide answer to it, to theorize, develop a sense of creative ingenuity be sound in critical and especially abstract thinking, be logical in reasoning and analysis of facts, develop ability to scan phenomenon and be able to separate the dross from the nuggets, develop ability to aggregate divergent scholarly views about a phenomenon, develop ability to establish a new line of thought or insight or course of action, articulate the new thought coherently and convincingly, generalize why things are the way they are about phenomenon, with predictions that offer solutions to problems under investigation through explanations, package and present (publish) the summary from (1)–(9) as a given name of a theory with simple, lucid name of study (title or topic) that contains the theory propounded that must capture the ingredients of theory like study base of the theory, uses, description, prediction, relationship among concept, model, variable, assumptions (hypotheses), tenets, and the explanatory values in a book, journal article, conference paper, monograph, etc. for people to ready, critique, evaluate, appreciate, and apply in solving problems.
However, to develop a theory, a systematic and scientific approach has to be adopted. Therefore, in a more lucid form, below is a step-by-step process on how to develop a theory
The above features and steps depicted are how to theorize or propound theory and once one can do it; one can propound a theory and become a theorist. Moreover, to achieve the above, one must know a lot in the field one wants to operate or carry out a research, to be able to know the available theories in the subject matter of interest. For example, knowing the already existing theories of poverty or under development will greatly help one to know what others said in the form of theories propounded or contributions made to existing knowledge in (poverty or underdevelopment). And by so doing, one can discover a new discourse or fresh line of thought (gap in knowledge) that explains poverty or underdevelopment vividly besides what others have done in the same subject matter of concern (poverty or underdevelopment). Being able to do the above correctly has the capacity to lead into propounding a new theory in the subject matter, or make a unique contribution to the available body of knowledge in the subject matter, or fill gap in the existing knowledge or literature. All these are intellectual exercises that come from intensive reading and understanding; critical thinking, abstract reasoning, organized and analytical thought processes, with the quest to discover or found new things that will proffer solutions to problems. That is what research is all about. So, you can see clearly that theory is the lifeblood of research, thus needs to be understood and internalized if reliable result will emerge from any research work. A research work that fails to grasp or to be consistently in tandem with a theory that is apt in order to maintain balance and stabilize the direction of the research as it flows throughout the structural components of the research will lose it purpose or focus. However, some research works do not need theory to be carried out. Theory, therefore, regulates or controls the flow of research to ensure that the researcher does not ignorantly go outside the scope of the content being investigated as laid by the conceptual and theoretical frameworks adopted in making analysis.
Application of theory
A theory that is apt and correctly applied in the body of research work in explaining reality has essential ingredients that are embedded in the theory. The ingredients lay the foundation for understanding the concepts and the theory in discourse by unraveling the origin of the theory, the fundamental assumptions or circumstance behind its formulation, the identity or name of the proponent(s), the year the theory was propounded, and if possible, the title of the research work and/or book it was published on. These make the researcher grounded and at home with the knowledge of the origin of the theory in use and its suitability.
These recipes for adopting a theory to use in a research work constitute what is generally known as theoretical framework of the study, or theoretical postulation/analysis/orientation/view. Before adopting a theory to use in a research work, the researcher has to be acquainted with the phenomenon under investigation in order to scan various theories relevant to the research to enable him/her choose the most appropriate theory that is in tandem with the research based on the explanatory value of the theory to the research. Thereafter, the researcher can adopt a particular theory based on its apt; merit, clarity, and conviction in providing a roadmap in explaining and linking up the entire research work, that is, according to Onodugu et al. (2010) showing relationships among variables. Similarly, Obasi (1999) observed that theoretical framework is a device and has to do with linking the subject matter under investigation to the assumptions, postulations, and principles of a theory.
The linking up function of theory encapsulates another unique role of theory known as theoretical application or application of theory. Here is where most people miss it, because it is technical and requires attention to grasp what constitutes the link ups and how to divulge it to the readers in a concise way. Therefore, theoretical application is showing how to use the theory adopted in explaining phenomenon and why it is so in relations to the various parts of the research it integrated. Mbah (2014) noted that the theoretical framework is the supporting structure upon which the research stands and connects to other parts.
For example, a research work that anchors on persistent violent social conflicts over who owns, who controls and who benefits what mineral/natural resources in a place thereby leading to destructions of lives, property, and general underdevelopment of a people could be explained from the perspective of “resource curse theory”, popularized by Richard Auty in 1993. The resource curse theory explains that countries that are rich in mineral resources endowment often end up economically poor, underdeveloped, and live in suffering as a result of the ill-managed resources evident in weak institutions, poor governance, bad leadership, and corruption that culminate in protracted violent conflicts that ravage the people. This theory perfectly explains Niger delta conflict and militancy against federal government and oil Multinational Corporation (MNCs) in the struggle for oil politics in determining who gets what, when, and how from oil. The indigenes claim shortchanged by the other two actors (government and oil MNCs), who also insist on ownership and lawful control of the oil which instead of being a blessing has turned into a curse due to incessant feuds the conflict has generated over the years.
A particular research work can have more than one theory that explains and analyzes a reality usually from a triangulation orientation. Triangulation is often used where one theory is inadequate to explain or capture all necessary indicators needed to explain a reality. Thus, some scholars call it a theoretical review when more than one theory is used in explaining one research work. Hence theoretical review is a collation and adoption of two to three different theories that are related, relevant, apt, and succinctly analyze a phenomenon under investigation. Let us use the same example above to drive home the point for clearer understanding. A research work that borders on persistent violent social conflicts about mineral resources leading to destructions of lives and property resulting in general underdevelopment and poverty can be explained through theoretical review that includes Frustration-Aggression theory of John Dollard et al. (1939), Relative Deprivation theory of Samuel Stouffer, Intractable Conflict theory, which according to Onuoha (2008) was popularized by Northrup in 1989 in an article entitled “The dynamics of identity in personal and social contract,” that was published in an edited book entitled, Intractable Conflicts and their Transformations. All these theories when reviewed are apt in explaining and analyzing the phenomenon above. The theories except the resource curse theory can also explain Boko Haram insurgency and Fulani herdsmen terrorism in Nigeria, depending on the line of argument presented by the author.
In the bid to adopt and apply theory correctly, efforts should be made by researchers and students to have a large bank/reservoir of theories and their meanings to enable them know the kind of investigation each theory is suitable to adopt in explaining, interpreting, analyzing, and predicting phenomenon. This reminds us that social science is interdisciplinary with multipronged perspectives thereby cutting across various departments or courses that made up the field such as public administration, political science, psychology, sociology, economics, etc. Thus, a theory propounded in the course of solving problem in one field of study can equally be suitable and apt in another discipline while some theories relevantly cut across all fields in the social sciences. Examples are the Frustration-Aggression theory developed by a psychologist John Dollard (1939), is used in explaining socio-economic and politically motivated violence and conflicts, while the general system theory of Ludwig von Bertalanffy is used in all fields of social sciences depending on the specific nature and type of research being carried out. The application of system theory to political science is credited to Easton David, while its application in sociology is traced to Niklas Luhmann. Both men adopted the general system theory and critical applied it to specific explanations of realities in their various fields of study. Theories have no enemy and do not segregate in performing their functions. So the more theories one knows, the better equipped one is in research and analysis.
Conclusion
Theory is essential in research and learning. Theory gives birth to principles that are adopted to control practice in the day-to-day applications to realities in our world. Research is guided by theory from its inception to the end of it, that is, research begins with theory, revolves around theory, ends with theory, and may lead to formulation of a new theory. Theory provides justifications and indicators that substantiate realities. Its generalization of abstractions harmonizes divergent views into a coherent uniformity. Theory explains; analyzes, describes, and predicts phenomenon to aid understanding of the phenomenon. The quest for knowledge is guided by theory. So theory provides a roadmap in building knowledge or extending the frontiers of knowledge. Research and theory coexist in shaping knowledge and understanding of the world around us.
Footnotes
Declaration of conflicting interests
The author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.
Funding
The author(s) received no financial support for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.
