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Orthogonality: Developing a structural/perspectival approach for improving theoretical models

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  • Steven E. Wallis

Abstract

In order to create more useful theories we must attempt to choose better concepts (variables). Although we may strive to identify “independent” variables, that effort is problematic because we live in a world where everything is connected; also, attempting to obtain even nominally independent variables may require sophisticated analytical methodologies available only to well‐funded researchers and practitioners. To help resolve those problems, and so provide an improved path for developing more useful theories, we explore the notion of orthogonality as a tool for rethinking concepts in a theory, from a structural perspective, in a way that clarifies research opportunities (from a data perspective) and clarifies situational/theoretical perspectives (from a relevance perspective).

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  • Steven E. Wallis, 2020. "Orthogonality: Developing a structural/perspectival approach for improving theoretical models," Systems Research and Behavioral Science, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 37(2), pages 345-359, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:srbeha:v:37:y:2020:i:2:p:345-359
    DOI: 10.1002/sres.2634
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    Cited by:

    1. Steven E. Wallis, 2021. "Understanding and improving the usefulness of conceptual systems: An Integrative Propositional Analysis‐based perspective on levels of structure and emergence," Systems Research and Behavioral Science, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 38(4), pages 426-447, August.
    2. Steven E. Wallis, 2022. "An Analysis of the Systemic Structure of the U.S. Constitution Providing New Insight into the Fragmentation and Conflict Facing U.S. Society and Providing Guidance Towards More Effective Governance," Systems Research and Behavioral Science, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 39(1), pages 30-43, January.

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