Hard Theory

Having spent considerable time in University studying theoretical understandings of the world, a reasonable question becomes apparent. How usefull is all this theory in understanding the real world anyway? To put it in a more specific context, to what extent does learning about theories of development and governance enhance our ability to actually make better decisions, implement more effective policy or transform development resources into real, beneficial outcomes.

Theories provide a framework to address a problem. They tell us what is important in a specific context and for a specific issue. They outline streams of cause and effect and effective provide a filter so that we do not become overloaded with information when trying to analyze a problem.

The obvious failure with theories is when they disconnect from reality. When the framework that they provide becomes too restrictive and the empirical or real outcome turns out to be drastically different than the predicted one. Theories become problematic when they filter out too many important factors to a problem along with the unimportant ones.

However, despite these problems, theories may still be helpful when used with a grain of salt. They do help to organize ideas and facts and can help streamline decision making, a feature that is important when time is of the essence. The important thing for those making decisions, developing policy, etc is to take all theory with a grain of salt. See what each framework would predict in a given situation, even if you don't agree with that theory entirely, it may provide insight that you never considered before.