theory

Also known as theories

thumb|200px|Sketch from Charles Darwin's Notebooks on Transmutation of Species (1837), arguably the first example of a phylogenetic tree. (1) represents a common ancestor, the barred branches represent extant descendants, and the unmarked branches represent extinct descendants. A theory is, in general, any hypothesis or set of ideas about something, formed in any number of ways through any sort of reasoning for any sort of reason.

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A theory is a hypothesis or set of ideas about something, developed through various types of reasoning and for different purposes. Theories matter because they provide frameworks for understanding and explaining phenomena, allowing us to organize our knowledge and make sense of the world around us.

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Image: Darwin Tree 1837.png

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Commons category: Theories
equivalent class: dbpedia.org/ontology/ScientificConcept
P8168: Memorial

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Article

24 sections

Contents

Ancient usage
Formality
Underdetermination
Intertheoretic reduction and elimination
Versus theorems
Theory–practice relationship
Scientific
Definitions from scientific organizations
Philosophical views
In physics
Regarding the term "theoretical"
Mathematical
Philosophical
Metatheory
Political
Jurisprudential
Examples
See also
Notes
References
Citations
Sources
Further reading
External links

When applied to intellectual or academic situations, it is considered a systematic and rational form of abstract thinking about a phenomenon, or the conclusions derived from such thinking. It involves contemplative and logical reasoning, often supported by processes such as observation, experimentation, and research. Theories can be scientific, falling within the realm of empirical and testable knowledge, or they may belong to non-scientific disciplines, such as art or philosophy. In some cases, theories may exist independently of any formal discipline.