METHODS OF LITERARY AND
CULTURAL
RESEARCH
THEORY AND METHODS
• There is no complete, readily-used theory. Theory is imperfect. It is the task of researchers to question, to refine or even to reject a theory.
• Theory functions to build knowledge into scientific knowledge.
• Two ways of approaching a theory:
1. Using previous theories (formal theories)
Weakness: stagnancy in theorisation 2. Building a theory (grounded theory)