Applying Theory to Policy and Practice: Methodological Problems and Issues

This collection is unusual in that it is borne both from the rigours of theoretical

and philosophical reflections and from addressing the many difficulties of applying

these reflections to the detail of policy and practice. The shared premise of all the

contributors is that too often the business of theoretical and philosophical rigour

and issues of detailed application are kept apart to the profound detriment of both

pursuits. Particular attention is paid to the methodological problems of moving from

theoretical generalisation (including normative and ethical arguments) to specific

policy and practice-based issues.