An article by R. Wippler is considered (see SA 25:4/77I7494). There are three points of agreement with Wippler: (1) the goal of empirical theoretical science is to formulate true & informative theories, (2) theoretical sociology must be brought closer to this aim, & (3) current preoccupations with 'perspectives', 'approaches', & 'orientations' must come to an end. However, Wippler's suggestions in this direction are far too modest. What is missing is a definite way to move from theoretical orientations to explanatory theories, & from orienting statements to testable propositions. This means that the relationship between theories & theoretical orientations is left unclear. As a consequence, explanatory theories seem a mere collection of disjointed propositions. This will not convince anyone that sociology should be advanced in that direction. A. Orianne.
