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So, What is Theory?

Jin Lee

Human Resource Development Review2025https://doi.org/10.1177/15344843241313150article
ABDC B
Weight
0.37

Abstract

This essay delves into the essential knowledge required for the development and contribution of theory, focusing on its definition, components, and the different methods for making theoretical contributions. I view theory not as a monumental intellectual achievement, but as a product of the theorizing process, moving away from the idea of a fully developed theory. I highlight four main outcomes of theorizing: concepts, principles, models, and theories, which exist along a continuum. Theoretical contributions involve introducing, refining, expanding, and replacing these outcomes. I also present three approaches—Theory-driven, Phenomena-driven, and Review-driven—as pathways for researchers to make theoretical contributions. The goal of this essay is to make the theorizing process more accessible and manageable for early-career researchers and doctoral students in HRD, offering guidance and support in their theory-building endeavors.

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https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1177/15344843241313150

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@article{jin2025,
  title        = {{So, What is Theory?}},
  author       = {Jin Lee},
  journal      = {Human Resource Development Review},
  year         = {2025},
  doi          = {https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1177/15344843241313150},
}

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Evidence weight

0.37

Balanced mode · F 0.40 / M 0.15 / V 0.05 / R 0.40

F · citation impact0.16 × 0.4 = 0.06
M · momentum0.53 × 0.15 = 0.08
V · venue signal0.50 × 0.05 = 0.03
R · text relevance †0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20

† Text relevance is estimated at 0.50 on the detail page — for your query’s actual relevance score, open this paper from a search result.