ABSTRACT
This chapter describes how theory contributes to the development of knowledge. It introduces different types of theory, both the social scientific approach and alternative ways of theorizing about communication. The chapter describes some of the common goals and functions for theory, as well as evaluation criteria that can be used to judge whether a theory is worthwhile. The other major way of learning more about communication and its processes and effects focuses on interpretation of texts and human actions. Scholars from this tradition tend to think empirical science-styled theory is too simplistic. Critical theory rejects the idea that merely offering explanations or predictions is sufficient for studying communication effectively. Critical theory analysis that seeks to reform media systems that are part of the power establishment and support the status quo by giving voice to and furthering the influence of a dominant class.
