1. Evaluative Criteria For Scientific and Interpretive Theories
COM 452
Evaluative Criteria
For
Scientific and Interpretive Theories

2. Not all theories are created equal
There are different criteria by which to evaluate different theories
An orange won’t withstand apple criteria and vice versa
Scientific theories should be evaluated by one set of criteria; interpretive by another
Within each perspective, some theories are better than others

3. Scientific Criterion 1 Explanatory Power
Explains the event or behavior
Makes sense out of complex events
Focuses on important variables
Explains what, how and why
Explains processes and outcomes

4. Scientific Criterion 2 Predictive Power Predicts what will happen
More accurate in the physical sciences
In social sciences we look at probability

5. Scientific Criterion 3 Parsimony Relative simplicity
As simple as possible

6. Scientific Criterion 4 Falsifiability Hypotheses that can be tested
If there is no way to prove a theory false, then the assumption it’s true is mere guesswork

7. Scientific Criterion 5 Practical Utility Usefulness
A good theory provides increased control

8. Interpretive Criterion 1
Understanding of People
Elucidates texts
Clarifies complex communication
Suggests universal patterns of symbol usage

9. Interpretive Criterion 2
Clarification of Values
What ought to happen
What is important for a just society
Liberty, equality (apple pie…)

10. Interpretive Criterion 3
Aesthetic Appeal
Form as “captivating” as content
Critic/theorist as “artist”

11. Interpretive Criterion 4
Community of Agreement
Must have widespread scrutiny and usage

12. Interpretive Criterion 5
Reform of Society
Challenges cultural assumptions
Generates alternatives for social action