What is Theory

Purpose – The aim of the paper is to examine the meaning and value of the notion of theory as a basis for other papers in the special issue which examine facets of theorising HRD.Design/methodology/approach – A small scale and targeted literature review was conducted which focused on writings in the philosophy and sociology of science in order to review the current status of knowledge and debate on the concept.Findings – The literature review revealed problems with the traditional but still conventional understanding of the concept. These are best illustrated by critiques of “scienticism” which apply in both the natural and social sciences. There are clear and significant problems with simplistic formulations of “theory” as a concept which limit the potential value of applying the term in academic enquiry and which also limit what might be thought possible for theorising HRD.Research limitations/implications – A number of implications for theorising and so researching HRD are identified. These include a n...