THE RELATION OF DATA TO THEORY.

Problems of data, problems of form, and problems of theory are discussed in examining the relation of data and theory. Data-collecting techniques make commitments to theory. Inferences regarding behavior in social systems from data based on mere geographic area are unwarranted, since the data exclude sociological premises. The form of statement for quantitative data may vary in scope from descriptive summary to the mathematical model. A mathematical or logical model becomes a theoretical model when all terms are connected to theory and operationally defined. Group and structure must be distinguished, and these manifest different kinds of cohesiveness, as illustrated in certain problems in the study of migration. Since only data statements are directly apprehended, theory is logically prior to data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]