Discuss the Difference Between Formal and Substantive Theory in Terms

question 15

Essay

Discuss the difference between formal and substantive theory in terms of focus. What are the strengths and weaknesses of each theoretical focus? Is there any relationship between the research audience basic vs. applied) and research focus formal vs. substantive theory)?

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Definitions:

Event

An outcome or a set of outcomes of a random experiment or phenomenon, which can be quantified for analysis in probability and statistics.

Simple Events

Basic occurrences or outcomes in probability that cannot be broken down into simpler components.

Experiment

A procedure undertaken to make a discovery, test a hypothesis, or demonstrate a known fact by observing the effects of modifying conditions or variables.

Experiment

A procedure carried out under controlled conditions to discover an unknown effect or law, to test or establish a hypothesis, or to illustrate a known law.