Understanding theory in research of social sciences: A critical review with case studies in communication studies



Understanding theory in research of social sciences: A critical review with case studies in communication studies (Tr 598-611)
Phan Quang Anh

Abstract: This paper shows an endeavor in looking at theory from ontological, epistemological and axiological perspectives to provide an in-depth analysis of the position of theory in the process of conducting research in Social Sciences.
To help illustrate, several examples from Communication Studies have been brought in that sketch out the way a theory should look like and how to apply it properly, especially for research in Vietnam where current theories have not been received adequate attention.
Keywords: Theory; social sciences; communication. 

Received: 22nd September 2016; Revised: 14th October 2016; Accepted: 31st October 2016


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