James Ladyman, Don Ross, David Spurrett, and John Collier
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780199276196
- eISBN:
- 9780191706127
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199276196.003.0002
- Subject:
- Philosophy, Metaphysics/Epistemology, Philosophy of Science
This chapter argues that a form of structural realism is motivated by reflection on issues that arise in two different domains that have been the subject of intense scrutiny during recent decades. ...
More
This chapter argues that a form of structural realism is motivated by reflection on issues that arise in two different domains that have been the subject of intense scrutiny during recent decades. These domains are related to: firstly, problems from the history of science about the abandonment of ontological commitments as old theories which are replaced by more empirically adequate ones; and secondly, questions arising from the debate between scientific realists and constructive empiricists about what really is at stake between them, and about the inadequacies of constructive empiricism. The so-called “semantic” or “model-theoretic” understanding of the nature of scientific representation is suggested to fit very well with the kind of structural realism advocated in this chapter. The structure of the argument presented here is dialectical. The most serious problems for constructive empiricism are explained, and van Fraassen's empiricism is supplemented with a commitment to objective modality to respond to such problems.Less
This chapter argues that a form of structural realism is motivated by reflection on issues that arise in two different domains that have been the subject of intense scrutiny during recent decades. These domains are related to: firstly, problems from the history of science about the abandonment of ontological commitments as old theories which are replaced by more empirically adequate ones; and secondly, questions arising from the debate between scientific realists and constructive empiricists about what really is at stake between them, and about the inadequacies of constructive empiricism. The so-called “semantic” or “model-theoretic” understanding of the nature of scientific representation is suggested to fit very well with the kind of structural realism advocated in this chapter. The structure of the argument presented here is dialectical. The most serious problems for constructive empiricism are explained, and van Fraassen's empiricism is supplemented with a commitment to objective modality to respond to such problems.
Megan Perigoe Stitt
- Published in print:
- 1998
- Published Online:
- October 2011
- ISBN:
- 9780198184423
- eISBN:
- 9780191674242
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198184423.001.0001
- Subject:
- Literature, 19th-century and Victorian Literature
From the beginning of the 19th century, the emerging study of language shared with geology certain metaphors — co-existing but mutually incompatible — to describe theories of change. The Tower of ...
More
From the beginning of the 19th century, the emerging study of language shared with geology certain metaphors — co-existing but mutually incompatible — to describe theories of change. The Tower of Babel, Rise and Fall, Line and Branch were ideas that fed both disciplines; and linguistic study sometimes drew its imagery directly from geology, comparing varieties of language to fossils marking layers of development. At the same time, tension arose between the concept of language as a fixed sign and the wish to endorse it as a tool for change, an unpredictable maker of history. This book looks in detail at three authors — Walter Scott, Elizabeth Gaskell, and Charles Kingsley — whose handling of language, and in particular of dialect speech, demonstrates different angles of approach, and puts fiction into dialogue with science. Through textual analysis of the novels, and examination of contemporary scientific discourse, the book throws light on how different genres affected the century's use of metaphor and its often contradictory theories of progress.Less
From the beginning of the 19th century, the emerging study of language shared with geology certain metaphors — co-existing but mutually incompatible — to describe theories of change. The Tower of Babel, Rise and Fall, Line and Branch were ideas that fed both disciplines; and linguistic study sometimes drew its imagery directly from geology, comparing varieties of language to fossils marking layers of development. At the same time, tension arose between the concept of language as a fixed sign and the wish to endorse it as a tool for change, an unpredictable maker of history. This book looks in detail at three authors — Walter Scott, Elizabeth Gaskell, and Charles Kingsley — whose handling of language, and in particular of dialect speech, demonstrates different angles of approach, and puts fiction into dialogue with science. Through textual analysis of the novels, and examination of contemporary scientific discourse, the book throws light on how different genres affected the century's use of metaphor and its often contradictory theories of progress.
Alex De Waal
- Published in print:
- 2020
- Published Online:
- May 2021
- ISBN:
- 9780197266953
- eISBN:
- 9780191938191
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- British Academy
- DOI:
- 10.5871/bacad/9780197266953.003.0017
- Subject:
- Political Science, Conflict Politics and Policy
This chapter draws upon the contributions to this volume and adds additional reflections on peacemaking in Sudan and South Sudan, to draw out some patterns and general conclusions. It frames the ...
More
This chapter draws upon the contributions to this volume and adds additional reflections on peacemaking in Sudan and South Sudan, to draw out some patterns and general conclusions. It frames the analysis within the theories of change implicit in international and domestic Sudanese approaches to peacemaking. The principal argument is that peace processes should be seen as an extension of politics, characterized by strategic ambiguity, pursuing parallel tracks, and positioning for future opportunities that cannot be identified in advance. By contrast, international peacemakers’ theories of change are structured to achieve a singular unified settlement, or to pursue external interests. Sudanese/South Sudanese civic actors’ strategies go beyond ‘inclusion’ to agenda setting and generating coalitions for change. These differences are illustrated with reference to how the Comprehensive Peace Agreement managed its core issues (economy and security) and its marginal or excluded issues (Abyei, the ‘two areas’ and Darfur).Less
This chapter draws upon the contributions to this volume and adds additional reflections on peacemaking in Sudan and South Sudan, to draw out some patterns and general conclusions. It frames the analysis within the theories of change implicit in international and domestic Sudanese approaches to peacemaking. The principal argument is that peace processes should be seen as an extension of politics, characterized by strategic ambiguity, pursuing parallel tracks, and positioning for future opportunities that cannot be identified in advance. By contrast, international peacemakers’ theories of change are structured to achieve a singular unified settlement, or to pursue external interests. Sudanese/South Sudanese civic actors’ strategies go beyond ‘inclusion’ to agenda setting and generating coalitions for change. These differences are illustrated with reference to how the Comprehensive Peace Agreement managed its core issues (economy and security) and its marginal or excluded issues (Abyei, the ‘two areas’ and Darfur).
James A. Phills
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- October 2011
- ISBN:
- 9780195171280
- eISBN:
- 9780199850327
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195171280.003.0008
- Subject:
- Business and Management, Strategy
This chapter describes the challenge of strategic change, whether internally or externally driven. In particular, a meta-framework that identifies three specific types of knowledge necessary for ...
More
This chapter describes the challenge of strategic change, whether internally or externally driven. In particular, a meta-framework that identifies three specific types of knowledge necessary for leading the process of intelligent strategic adaptation: a theory of organizational performance, a theory of change, and a theory of intervention, is reported. The basic types of skills and knowledge that leaders need if they are to be effective agents of strategic change are also examined. The Dashman Company is used as a case study that shows the three generic categories of skill and knowledge.Less
This chapter describes the challenge of strategic change, whether internally or externally driven. In particular, a meta-framework that identifies three specific types of knowledge necessary for leading the process of intelligent strategic adaptation: a theory of organizational performance, a theory of change, and a theory of intervention, is reported. The basic types of skills and knowledge that leaders need if they are to be effective agents of strategic change are also examined. The Dashman Company is used as a case study that shows the three generic categories of skill and knowledge.
Lawrence Sklar
- Published in print:
- 2002
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780199251575
- eISBN:
- 9780191598449
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0199251576.003.0005
- Subject:
- Philosophy, Philosophy of Science
It is a platitude of scepticism that our theories are never more than transient holders of our scientific esteem, soon to be replaced by newer, incompatible theories. What are some ‘global’ responses ...
More
It is a platitude of scepticism that our theories are never more than transient holders of our scientific esteem, soon to be replaced by newer, incompatible theories. What are some ‘global’ responses one can make to such a version of scepticism? How does science deal with the apparent transience of its best theories in its project of going onward to ever better theoretical characterizations of the world? Given the transience of our theories, how would it be best to characterize our epistemic attitude toward our theories: perhaps as believing them to be the appropriate starting points to be reconstructed as the source of our future theories. Science itself can provide theories about our current best theories as guides to the future.Less
It is a platitude of scepticism that our theories are never more than transient holders of our scientific esteem, soon to be replaced by newer, incompatible theories. What are some ‘global’ responses one can make to such a version of scepticism? How does science deal with the apparent transience of its best theories in its project of going onward to ever better theoretical characterizations of the world? Given the transience of our theories, how would it be best to characterize our epistemic attitude toward our theories: perhaps as believing them to be the appropriate starting points to be reconstructed as the source of our future theories. Science itself can provide theories about our current best theories as guides to the future.
Otávio Bueno and Mark Colyvan
- Published in print:
- 2004
- Published Online:
- May 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780199265176
- eISBN:
- 9780191713989
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199265176.003.0010
- Subject:
- Philosophy, Philosophy of Language, Logic/Philosophy of Mathematics
A common response to those who question the Law of Non-Contradiction (LNC) is that it is impossible to debate such a fundamental law of logic. The reasons for this response vary, but what seems to ...
More
A common response to those who question the Law of Non-Contradiction (LNC) is that it is impossible to debate such a fundamental law of logic. The reasons for this response vary, but what seems to underlie them is the thought that there is a minimal set of logical resources without which rational debate is impossible. This chapter argues that this response is misguided. First, it defends non-apriorism in logic: the view that logic is in the same epistemic boat as other scientific theories. It then offers an account of logical theory change in terms of this epistemology. The LNC is discussed in terms of this account of logical theory change, and it is shown that rational debate over this law can, and does, proceed. Finally, arguments for and against the LNC are discussed, and how and where non-a priori considerations arise in these arguments are illustrated.Less
A common response to those who question the Law of Non-Contradiction (LNC) is that it is impossible to debate such a fundamental law of logic. The reasons for this response vary, but what seems to underlie them is the thought that there is a minimal set of logical resources without which rational debate is impossible. This chapter argues that this response is misguided. First, it defends non-apriorism in logic: the view that logic is in the same epistemic boat as other scientific theories. It then offers an account of logical theory change in terms of this epistemology. The LNC is discussed in terms of this account of logical theory change, and it is shown that rational debate over this law can, and does, proceed. Finally, arguments for and against the LNC are discussed, and how and where non-a priori considerations arise in these arguments are illustrated.
Philip Kitcher
- Published in print:
- 1985
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780195035414
- eISBN:
- 9780199833368
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0195035410.003.0008
- Subject:
- Philosophy, Logic/Philosophy of Mathematics
Chapters 7–9 offer a general account of the growth of mathematics. Introduce the notion of a mathematical practice, a multidimensional entity consisting of a language, accepted statements, accepted ...
More
Chapters 7–9 offer a general account of the growth of mathematics. Introduce the notion of a mathematical practice, a multidimensional entity consisting of a language, accepted statements, accepted questions, accepted means of inference, and methodological maxims. Mathematics grows by modifying one or more components in response to the problems posed by others. So new language, language that is not initially well understood, may be introduced in order to answer questions taken to be important but resisting solution by available methods; in consequence, there may be a new task of clarifying the language or taming the methods that the extended language allows. The chapters attempt to show how such processes have occurred in the history of mathematics, and how they link the rich state of present mathematics to the crude beginnings of the subject. In Chapter 7, in particular, Kitcher compares mathematical change with scientific change, attempting to show that the growth of mathematical knowledge is far more similar to the growth of scientific knowledge than is usually appreciated.Less
Chapters 7–9 offer a general account of the growth of mathematics. Introduce the notion of a mathematical practice, a multidimensional entity consisting of a language, accepted statements, accepted questions, accepted means of inference, and methodological maxims. Mathematics grows by modifying one or more components in response to the problems posed by others. So new language, language that is not initially well understood, may be introduced in order to answer questions taken to be important but resisting solution by available methods; in consequence, there may be a new task of clarifying the language or taming the methods that the extended language allows. The chapters attempt to show how such processes have occurred in the history of mathematics, and how they link the rich state of present mathematics to the crude beginnings of the subject. In Chapter 7, in particular, Kitcher compares mathematical change with scientific change, attempting to show that the growth of mathematical knowledge is far more similar to the growth of scientific knowledge than is usually appreciated.
Richard E. Boyatzis and Stephen P. Kelner
- Published in print:
- 2010
- Published Online:
- May 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195335156
- eISBN:
- 9780199776955
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195335156.003.0017
- Subject:
- Psychology, Social Psychology
Implicit motives manifest themselves in patterns of behavior that we call competencies. Since 1970, the study of competencies and their predictive relationship to effectiveness in many occupations in ...
More
Implicit motives manifest themselves in patterns of behavior that we call competencies. Since 1970, the study of competencies and their predictive relationship to effectiveness in many occupations in many types of organizations, sectors, and countries has allowed for the understanding of how functionally related clusters of behavior organized around a specific unconscious intent. Because of the behavioral nature of the competencies, measurement is more observable than projective tests, more holistic (i.e., incorporating physiological states as well as mental and emotional ones), and easier to use in applied settings. In this chapter, the history of research evidence is reviewed along with the theoretical distinctions and an empirically tested model for developing competencies in adults.Less
Implicit motives manifest themselves in patterns of behavior that we call competencies. Since 1970, the study of competencies and their predictive relationship to effectiveness in many occupations in many types of organizations, sectors, and countries has allowed for the understanding of how functionally related clusters of behavior organized around a specific unconscious intent. Because of the behavioral nature of the competencies, measurement is more observable than projective tests, more holistic (i.e., incorporating physiological states as well as mental and emotional ones), and easier to use in applied settings. In this chapter, the history of research evidence is reviewed along with the theoretical distinctions and an empirically tested model for developing competencies in adults.
Mary E. Evans and Mary I. Armstrong
- Published in print:
- 2002
- Published Online:
- January 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780195134575
- eISBN:
- 9780199864065
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195134575.003.0003
- Subject:
- Social Work, Health and Mental Health, Communities and Organizations
This chapter begins with a brief discussion of the definitions of case management. It then discusses the core functions of case management, the process of case management, its history and ...
More
This chapter begins with a brief discussion of the definitions of case management. It then discusses the core functions of case management, the process of case management, its history and development, the theory of change in case management, and the establishment and maintenance of a case management program. An example of a case management intervention is presented.Less
This chapter begins with a brief discussion of the definitions of case management. It then discusses the core functions of case management, the process of case management, its history and development, the theory of change in case management, and the establishment and maintenance of a case management program. An example of a case management intervention is presented.
Philip Kitcher
- Published in print:
- 1985
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780195035414
- eISBN:
- 9780199833368
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0195035410.003.0010
- Subject:
- Philosophy, Logic/Philosophy of Mathematics
Describes some types of inference and principles of theory choice that are involved in the growth of mathematics.
Describes some types of inference and principles of theory choice that are involved in the growth of mathematics.
Peter Frumkin (ed.)
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- February 2013
- ISBN:
- 9780226266268
- eISBN:
- 9780226266282
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- University of Chicago Press
- DOI:
- 10.7208/chicago/9780226266282.003.0007
- Subject:
- Sociology, Economic Sociology
This chapter discusses the role of the theories of change, leverage, and scale in helping donors improve philanthropic effectiveness. It explains that there are strong connections linking these ...
More
This chapter discusses the role of the theories of change, leverage, and scale in helping donors improve philanthropic effectiveness. It explains that there are strong connections linking these theories to one another and all three pieces actually fit together into what is known as a logic model. This chapter presents a diagram of the elements of a logic model and explains how to construct a logic model. It also clarifies that the construction of logic models is not a substitute for the inner exploration and search for fundamental commitments that lie at the core of strategic giving.Less
This chapter discusses the role of the theories of change, leverage, and scale in helping donors improve philanthropic effectiveness. It explains that there are strong connections linking these theories to one another and all three pieces actually fit together into what is known as a logic model. This chapter presents a diagram of the elements of a logic model and explains how to construct a logic model. It also clarifies that the construction of logic models is not a substitute for the inner exploration and search for fundamental commitments that lie at the core of strategic giving.
Stephanie M. Jones, Joshua L. Brown, and J. Lawrence Aber
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- April 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195327892
- eISBN:
- 9780199301478
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195327892.003.0004
- Subject:
- Psychology, Clinical Child Psychology / School Psychology
This chapter focuses on the classroom context as a primary setting for positive youth development. It highlights the theory and evaluations of two programs that aim to promote caring classroom ...
More
This chapter focuses on the classroom context as a primary setting for positive youth development. It highlights the theory and evaluations of two programs that aim to promote caring classroom communities and positive youth development through a focus on teachers' professional development and the implementation of a social and emotional learning (SEL) curriculum. It begins with a discussion of the programs' theory of change, which emphasizes the role of teachers' own SEL skills and everyday interactions with colleagues and students in promoting a positive and effective classroom climate and, ultimately, positive youth development. This discussion is followed by a description of a theory of the classroom setting as a dynamic system of four interconnected elements related to positive youth development. Each of these domains is reviewed including its research base, examples of intervention activities, and assessment tools used in the research.Less
This chapter focuses on the classroom context as a primary setting for positive youth development. It highlights the theory and evaluations of two programs that aim to promote caring classroom communities and positive youth development through a focus on teachers' professional development and the implementation of a social and emotional learning (SEL) curriculum. It begins with a discussion of the programs' theory of change, which emphasizes the role of teachers' own SEL skills and everyday interactions with colleagues and students in promoting a positive and effective classroom climate and, ultimately, positive youth development. This discussion is followed by a description of a theory of the classroom setting as a dynamic system of four interconnected elements related to positive youth development. Each of these domains is reviewed including its research base, examples of intervention activities, and assessment tools used in the research.
Hartry Field
- Published in print:
- 2001
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780199242894
- eISBN:
- 9780191597381
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0199242895.003.0006
- Subject:
- Philosophy, General
There is a natural argument for the incommensurability of scientific theories, based on examples where there is more than one equally good candidate for what an earlier term referred to. The chapter ...
More
There is a natural argument for the incommensurability of scientific theories, based on examples where there is more than one equally good candidate for what an earlier term referred to. The chapter argues that such examples actually do not support incommensurability in any very serious sense. They do show a difficulty in applying standard semantic vocabulary in a determinate way to such earlier theories, but the chapter argues for a generalization of semantic vocabulary that largely avoids the difficulties. Includes a new postscript.Less
There is a natural argument for the incommensurability of scientific theories, based on examples where there is more than one equally good candidate for what an earlier term referred to. The chapter argues that such examples actually do not support incommensurability in any very serious sense. They do show a difficulty in applying standard semantic vocabulary in a determinate way to such earlier theories, but the chapter argues for a generalization of semantic vocabulary that largely avoids the difficulties. Includes a new postscript.
Philip Kitcher
- Published in print:
- 1985
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780195035414
- eISBN:
- 9780199833368
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0195035410.003.0009
- Subject:
- Philosophy, Logic/Philosophy of Mathematics
Surveys the types of changes in mathematics that are of epistemological interest.
Surveys the types of changes in mathematics that are of epistemological interest.
James A. Phills
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- October 2011
- ISBN:
- 9780195171280
- eISBN:
- 9780199850327
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195171280.003.0005
- Subject:
- Business and Management, Strategy
This chapter explores the execution of strategy and the role of logic as key elements in the execution of the mission. The mission and the parallel logic of “causal models” or “theories of change” ...
More
This chapter explores the execution of strategy and the role of logic as key elements in the execution of the mission. The mission and the parallel logic of “causal models” or “theories of change” and the role they play in the execution of the mission are explained. It also shows how the choices associated with the execution of strategy and the choices associated with the execution of mission are related to one another. The logic of strategy and logic of mission are distinct, but they are also interdependent. Even though they perform different functions and are designed to produce different outcomes (i.e., economic versus social, environmental, or artistic value), each constrains and influences the other. Concrete examples of the choices involved in execution are given as well. Moreover, the elements of execution, namely the policies that employees will follow during the course of their work, and activities that they are directed to undertake and resource allocation are described.Less
This chapter explores the execution of strategy and the role of logic as key elements in the execution of the mission. The mission and the parallel logic of “causal models” or “theories of change” and the role they play in the execution of the mission are explained. It also shows how the choices associated with the execution of strategy and the choices associated with the execution of mission are related to one another. The logic of strategy and logic of mission are distinct, but they are also interdependent. Even though they perform different functions and are designed to produce different outcomes (i.e., economic versus social, environmental, or artistic value), each constrains and influences the other. Concrete examples of the choices involved in execution are given as well. Moreover, the elements of execution, namely the policies that employees will follow during the course of their work, and activities that they are directed to undertake and resource allocation are described.
Zhen-Qing Chen and Masatoshi Fukushima
- Published in print:
- 2011
- Published Online:
- October 2017
- ISBN:
- 9780691136059
- eISBN:
- 9781400840564
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Princeton University Press
- DOI:
- 10.23943/princeton/9780691136059.001.0001
- Subject:
- Mathematics, Probability / Statistics
This book gives a comprehensive and self-contained introduction to the theory of symmetric Markov processes and symmetric quasi-regular Dirichlet forms. In a detailed and accessible manner, the book ...
More
This book gives a comprehensive and self-contained introduction to the theory of symmetric Markov processes and symmetric quasi-regular Dirichlet forms. In a detailed and accessible manner, the book covers the essential elements and applications of the theory of symmetric Markov processes, including recurrence/transience criteria, probabilistic potential theory, additive functional theory, and time change theory. The book develops the theory in a general framework of symmetric quasi-regular Dirichlet forms in a unified manner with that of regular Dirichlet forms, emphasizing the role of extended Dirichlet spaces and the rich interplay between the probabilistic and analytic aspects of the theory. It then addresses the latest advances in the theory, presented here for the first time in any book. Topics include the characterization of time-changed Markov processes in terms of Douglas integrals and a systematic account of reflected Dirichlet spaces, and the important roles such advances play in the boundary theory of symmetric Markov processes. This book is an ideal resource for researchers and practitioners, and can also serve as a textbook for advanced graduate students. It includes examples, appendixes, and exercises with solutions.Less
This book gives a comprehensive and self-contained introduction to the theory of symmetric Markov processes and symmetric quasi-regular Dirichlet forms. In a detailed and accessible manner, the book covers the essential elements and applications of the theory of symmetric Markov processes, including recurrence/transience criteria, probabilistic potential theory, additive functional theory, and time change theory. The book develops the theory in a general framework of symmetric quasi-regular Dirichlet forms in a unified manner with that of regular Dirichlet forms, emphasizing the role of extended Dirichlet spaces and the rich interplay between the probabilistic and analytic aspects of the theory. It then addresses the latest advances in the theory, presented here for the first time in any book. Topics include the characterization of time-changed Markov processes in terms of Douglas integrals and a systematic account of reflected Dirichlet spaces, and the important roles such advances play in the boundary theory of symmetric Markov processes. This book is an ideal resource for researchers and practitioners, and can also serve as a textbook for advanced graduate students. It includes examples, appendixes, and exercises with solutions.
Leslie Hollingsworth and Larry M. Gant
- Published in print:
- 2017
- Published Online:
- July 2017
- ISBN:
- 9780190463311
- eISBN:
- 9780190463342
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780190463311.003.0005
- Subject:
- Social Work, Communities and Organizations
Abstract: This chapter describes how the University of Michigan School of Social Work’s Technical Assistance Center (UMSSW/TAC) developed its theory of change as a partner in the Skillman ...
More
Abstract: This chapter describes how the University of Michigan School of Social Work’s Technical Assistance Center (UMSSW/TAC) developed its theory of change as a partner in the Skillman Foundation-funded Detroit Good Neighborhoods initiative. The definition of a theory of change accepted was of “a specification of what must be done to achieve the desired goals, what other important impacts may also be anticipated, and how these goals and impacts would be generated.” The chapter discusses the processes in the creation of iterations of Foundation and UMSSW/TAC theories of change. The chapter concludes with the benefits, limitations, issues, and challenges of aligning logic models with the varied expectations and goals of residents, funding foundations, and university partners.Less
Abstract: This chapter describes how the University of Michigan School of Social Work’s Technical Assistance Center (UMSSW/TAC) developed its theory of change as a partner in the Skillman Foundation-funded Detroit Good Neighborhoods initiative. The definition of a theory of change accepted was of “a specification of what must be done to achieve the desired goals, what other important impacts may also be anticipated, and how these goals and impacts would be generated.” The chapter discusses the processes in the creation of iterations of Foundation and UMSSW/TAC theories of change. The chapter concludes with the benefits, limitations, issues, and challenges of aligning logic models with the varied expectations and goals of residents, funding foundations, and university partners.
Ines Newman and Peter Ratcliffe
- Published in print:
- 2011
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9781847426956
- eISBN:
- 9781447303084
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Policy Press
- DOI:
- 10.1332/policypress/9781847426956.003.0014
- Subject:
- Sociology, Urban and Rural Studies
This chapter aims to pull together the chapters of this book into a theory of change (ToC) that can provide a new basis for the evaluation of social cohesion. It also highlights the problems with ...
More
This chapter aims to pull together the chapters of this book into a theory of change (ToC) that can provide a new basis for the evaluation of social cohesion. It also highlights the problems with implementing this new approach as a result of the financial crisis and change of government. The chapter then provides an optimistic note and identifies the levers that might help sustain a broader approach despite the difficulties. A brief preliminary assessment of the general policy terrain likely to be occupied by the new coalition government is presented. Stakeholders who are the subjects of evaluation have to be able to hold those with power to account. The Equality Act 2010 was a key achievement of the last government. Progress can be made on the new equalities duties at the local level, but it will depend on local leadership and local champions.Less
This chapter aims to pull together the chapters of this book into a theory of change (ToC) that can provide a new basis for the evaluation of social cohesion. It also highlights the problems with implementing this new approach as a result of the financial crisis and change of government. The chapter then provides an optimistic note and identifies the levers that might help sustain a broader approach despite the difficulties. A brief preliminary assessment of the general policy terrain likely to be occupied by the new coalition government is presented. Stakeholders who are the subjects of evaluation have to be able to hold those with power to account. The Equality Act 2010 was a key achievement of the last government. Progress can be made on the new equalities duties at the local level, but it will depend on local leadership and local champions.
Duncan Green
- Published in print:
- 2016
- Published Online:
- October 2016
- ISBN:
- 9780198785392
- eISBN:
- 9780191833236
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198785392.003.0001
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, Development, Growth, and Environmental, Public and Welfare
This introductory chapter recounts personal experiences as an individual ‘change agent’, which have shaped the making of this book. It laments the fact that many theories of change used by different ...
More
This introductory chapter recounts personal experiences as an individual ‘change agent’, which have shaped the making of this book. It laments the fact that many theories of change used by different academic disciplines each operate with separate and often conflicting ideas, without any ‘department of change studies’ to sort it out. Hence the chapter lays down some preliminary insights that inform the rest of this book, by expanding the definition of ‘activists’ to include a variety of actors, programmes, and institutions involved in campaigns of change. In addition, the chapter also lays out the framework of study to be undertaken in the book, particularly by using Amartya Sen’s definition of development as the progressive expansion of the freedoms to be and to do. Finally, the chapter outlines in brief the three individual sections of this book.Less
This introductory chapter recounts personal experiences as an individual ‘change agent’, which have shaped the making of this book. It laments the fact that many theories of change used by different academic disciplines each operate with separate and often conflicting ideas, without any ‘department of change studies’ to sort it out. Hence the chapter lays down some preliminary insights that inform the rest of this book, by expanding the definition of ‘activists’ to include a variety of actors, programmes, and institutions involved in campaigns of change. In addition, the chapter also lays out the framework of study to be undertaken in the book, particularly by using Amartya Sen’s definition of development as the progressive expansion of the freedoms to be and to do. Finally, the chapter outlines in brief the three individual sections of this book.
Kerry McKenzie
- Published in print:
- 2021
- Published Online:
- September 2021
- ISBN:
- 9780198844143
- eISBN:
- 9780191879777
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/oso/9780198844143.003.0011
- Subject:
- Philosophy, Metaphysics/Epistemology
Physicists have long been in search of the final theory—a physical theory that can be regarded as the truly fundamental description of nature. But metaphysicians likewise aspire to describe the world ...
More
Physicists have long been in search of the final theory—a physical theory that can be regarded as the truly fundamental description of nature. But metaphysicians likewise aspire to describe the world as it is most fundamentally. I argue that if we take a naturalistic approach to metaphysics, a final theory is even more crucial to success of the metaphysical project than it is to that of the physicist. This is because the non-fundamental theories produced by contemporary physicists may at least be said to approximate the final theory, and so physicists may be said to at least be making progress towards their goal in advance of having achieved it. Metaphysical theories, by contrast, cannot be said to be ‘approximately true’, and hence do not obviously partake in such progress. This raises questions of the value of engaging in naturalistic metaphysics prior to the emergence of a truly final theory.Less
Physicists have long been in search of the final theory—a physical theory that can be regarded as the truly fundamental description of nature. But metaphysicians likewise aspire to describe the world as it is most fundamentally. I argue that if we take a naturalistic approach to metaphysics, a final theory is even more crucial to success of the metaphysical project than it is to that of the physicist. This is because the non-fundamental theories produced by contemporary physicists may at least be said to approximate the final theory, and so physicists may be said to at least be making progress towards their goal in advance of having achieved it. Metaphysical theories, by contrast, cannot be said to be ‘approximately true’, and hence do not obviously partake in such progress. This raises questions of the value of engaging in naturalistic metaphysics prior to the emergence of a truly final theory.
