Scientific theory

Scientific theory is a system of generalized knowledge, an explanation of the versatility of events, situations that occur in nature or society .

The concept of “ scientific theory ” has different meanings: to contrast practice or a hypothesis as unverified knowledge in the form of an assumption; generalization of best practice by reflecting it in thinking and reproducing reality. Theory is continuously connected with practice, which poses the task of cognition and requires their solution. Therefore, practice is an organic element of the theory. Each theory has a complex structure. So, in economic theory, two parts can be distinguished: formal calculus (economic-mathematical models, logical equations, etc.) and a “meaningful” interpretation (categories, laws, principles). The latter is connected with philosophical views, the worldview of a scientist, with certain methodological principles of an approach to reality.

Scientific theory as a form of knowledge organization provides an extension of the field of knowledge beyond direct observation, therefore, it differs from simple registration of observations and is characterized by the presence of the following elements:

• General laws and their scope, where she explains the phenomena that occur;
• Spheres of prediction of unknown phenomena;
• Logical and mathematical apparatus of the conclusion of the investigation of the laws;
• The definition of a conceptual scheme without which the knowledge of the objects of this theory is impossible.

Economic theories are determined by the historical conditions in which they arise, the level of production, social conditions that dominate in a given period, which contribute to or inhibit their knowledge. Since the theory arises as a generalization of cognitive activity and the results of practice, it contributes to the transformation of nature and social life.

The criterion of the truth of the theory is the practice of economic activity of people, changes in nature, society. The study of the history of the development of science, both evolutionarily and revolutionaryly, also helps to avoid false trends in science.