ABSTRACT

Sociology seeks to define society, social interactions, and relationships. The goal of social theory is to describe relationships that are unique to groups. Theoretical work consists of four components: concepts, variables, statements, and formats (Turner 1998). An empirical system must: be plausible (e.g. apply to the real world), satisfy criterion of demarcation, and theory must make a unique contribution to the existing literature (Popper 1959). Social theory can make a contribution to our understanding of society as a whole. Social theory can explain the relationships between groups in society across time, space, and culture.