Objective vs interpretive theories

1
Objective theory
Theory explains the past & present + predicts the
future
Evaluation criteria: relative simplicity; testability &
usefulness
Scientific standards
1. Explanation of the data
2. Prediction of future events
3. Relative simplicity
4. Hypotheses can be tested
5. Practical utility
2
Interpretive theory
Functions: create understanding; identify values;
inspire aesthetic appreciation; stimulate agreement;
reform society
Interpretive standards:
1. New understanding of people
2. Clarification of values
3. Aesthetic appeal
4. A community of agreement
5. Reform of society

3
Similarities
1. An explanation of communication behavior can
lead to further understanding of people’s motivation
2. Both prediction and value clarification look to the
future.
3. ...simplicity has an aesthetic appeal
4. Testing hypotheses is a way of achieving a community
of agreement
5. ...practical...

4
Summary
Objective theory
Interpretive theory
Reference: Griffin, 2009, pp. 27-40