Usable theory. Analytic Tools for Social and Political Research

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The project of twentieth-century sociology and political science aimed to create predictive scientific theories but achieved limited success in developing fully applicable theories. However, focused "theory frames" that identify problems and relevant causal factors have led to vibrant and insightful empirical research. While these frames do not provide direct explanations or predictions, they guide empirical theory formation and inform inferences drawn from evidence, contributing significantly to advancements in the social sciences. Dietrich Rueschemeyer, a distinguished sociologist, demonstrates to graduate students and researchers how to construct theory frames and use them to develop valid empirical hypotheses in social and political research. The book integrates new ideas and analytical tools from both classic and contemporary theoretical traditions, expanding the rationalist model of action by emphasizing knowledge, norms, preferences, and emotions. It also examines how larger social formations influence basic forms of action. Throughout, the work aims to mobilize the implicit theoretical social knowledge utilized in everyday life, offering practical tools for theory building in social and political research while connecting theoretical concepts to methodological challenges.