The main difference between theory and perspective is that a theory is a credible or scientifically acceptable general principle or a set of principles that explain a particular phenomenon while a perspective is a particular way of considering something or a point of view.
Theory and perspective are two terms we come across in research studies. A theory is basically a set of principles or ideas that explain something, whereas perspective is the way a person looks at things. While most people generally believe scientifically acceptable theories as true, perspectives differ from person to person.
Key Areas Covered
1. What is Theory
– Definition, Characteristics
2. What is Perspective
– Definition, Characteristics
3. Difference Between Theory and Perspective
– Comparison of Key Differences
Key Terms
Perspective, Principle, Theory
What is Theory
A theory is a reasonable or scientifically acceptable general principle or a set of principles that explain a particular phenomenon. Looking at some definitions of this term will help us to understand its meaning more clearly. According to the Oxford dictionary, a theory is “a supposition or a system of ideas intended to explain something, especially one based on general principles independent of the thing to be explained. Meanwhile, the American Heritage dictionary defines it as “a set of statements or principles devised to explain a group of facts or phenomena, especially one that has been repeatedly tested or is widely accepted and can be used to make predictions about natural phenomena.”
As we can see from the above descriptions, a theory is an explanation about a particular phenomenon, specifically, why something happens. Moreover, a theory emerges through scientific methods. Constant observations and recurrent experiments are necessary for the formation of a theory. Moreover, a theory is usually based on a hypothesis. A theory originates when that hypothesis is scientifically proven and gets generally accepted. Theory of natural selection, Einstein’s theory of special relativity, quantum theory, and Lavoisier’s oxygen theory of combustion are some examples of scientific theories.
Furthermore, the credibility or reliability of a theory depends on the evidence that supports. If new evidence comes into the light with the passage of time, scientists have to revise and replace some theories. For instance, the theory of modern evolutionary synthesis is a combination of Darwin’s theory of evolution and new information on genetics.
What is Perspective
Perspective is basically the way we look at things or our point of view. Furthermore, different people have different perspectives. When we use different perspectives, we might see the same scene or objects in different ways. For example, some students might see school as a place to have fun, whereas some may see it as a restricting place with too many rules and regulations.
Furthermore, it is also important to note that this term has different meanings in different contexts. In literature, it may simply refer to a point of view. However, in graphics, it refers to representing the effects of visual perspective in graphic arts. In philosophy, perspective refers to the context of opinions, beliefs, and experiences.
Difference Between Theory and Perspective
Definition
A theory is a credible or scientifically acceptable general principle or a set of principles that explain a particular phenomenon while a perspective is a particular way of considering something or a point of view.
Characteristics
A theory is based on a hypothesis and supported by strong evidence, whereas a perspective is simply the way someone looks at something or his or her point of view on something.
Acceptance
People generally accept plausible theories as true, whereas different people may have different perspectives.
Conclusion
The main difference between theory and perspective is that a theory is a credible or scientifically acceptable general principle or a set of principles that explain a particular phenomenon while a perspective is a particular way of considering something or a point of view.
Image Courtesy:
1. “The State of Influencer Theory” By Geoff Livingston (CC BY-SA 2.0) via Flickr
2. “3046269” (CC0) via Pixabay
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