Theory
A theory is a structured explanatory system that connects multiple concepts in order to account for patterns, relationships, or mechanisms in the world.
Concepts do not exist only in isolation. They may be connected into broader structures that explain how phenomena relate, why they occur, or how they develop. Such structures constitute theories.
A theory therefore depends on concepts but is not reducible to any single one of them. It organizes concepts into a coherent explanatory framework.
In this sense, theories emerge after concepts have become sufficiently stable to support more complex forms of connection and inference.
Concept Commons does not primarily focus on the theory stage. Its emphasis lies earlier, at the point where ideas become concepts. However, theories remain an important downstream destination of concept formation.
A theory is not identical with a concept.
A concept is one shareable intellectual unit. A theory connects multiple concepts into a larger explanatory structure.
A theory is also not identical with an idea.
An idea may be tentative and incomplete. A theory requires a higher degree of structure, coherence, and explanatory integration.
Nor is a theory simply a collection of terms. Its defining feature is organized explanatory connection.
Theories give concepts explanatory structure.
If concepts make thought shareable, theories make systems of thought possible.