theoretization
Theoretization is the process of forming, refining, and articulating theories—systematic sets of concepts and propositions designed to explain, predict, or organize knowledge about phenomena. It involves abstraction from specific observations, the construction of general principles, and often the formalization of relationships among variables. Theoretization can produce conceptual frameworks that guide inquiry, suggest hypotheses, and provide criteria for evaluating empirical evidence.
The process appears across disciplines: in natural sciences it yields models and laws; in social sciences it
Criteria for assessing theories include empirical adequacy, internal coherence, explanatory depth, simplicity, and predictive power. Theoretization