The use of taxonomies & models in the development of theory
Samenvatting
The gap between sociol'al theory & empirical sociol'al res is emphasized, & a "methodology of theory" is developed. There are 3 main groups of theoretical constructions, viz, theories (systems of propositions), taxonomies (systems of defined notions) & models (isomorphic or analogous with theories or taxonomies). Taxonomies & models are the necessary expedients for the formation of theory; tbey are not open to empirical verification. Empirical res is the verification of theory, ie, propositions; any res presented as such will be a contribution to theory. 3 ways are described in the formation of theory by means of taxonomies & models. H. Van den Belt.
