Research Quality and Theoretical Frameworks
Building valid research requires connecting your observations to solid theoretical frameworks. In natural sciences, these theories are often precise and well-established. Social sciences work with more complex, sometimes imprecise theories, but this doesn't make the research less valuable.
Laws in science describe observed patterns, while theories provide systematic explanations for why these patterns occur. The quality of theories can vary - some offer partial truths, others claim universal validity, and some acknowledge multiple valid perspectives.
Evidence plays a crucial role in either supporting existing theories or helping construct new ones. Strong research demonstrates clear connections between theoretical concepts and actual observations, even when dealing with complex social phenomena.
Research reality check: Perfect theories don't exist - even well-established scientific theories continue evolving as new evidence emerges, and that's exactly how science should work.