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Modularizing Small Group Theories in Sociology

This article asserts that it is beneficial to formulate theories using methods specifically designed to facilitate and promote integrations. Although it is written using illustrations primarily from sociology, the discussion is relevant to other fields to whatever extent their theories may be deemed informal (i.e., presented without explicitly defined terms, distinct propositions, or logical calculi for deriving hypotheses). Constructing theories in a modular fashion makes the processes of development and explication more efficient, and the products more generally useful. Modules are semiautonomous components designed with sufficient flexibility that they can be assembled into larger combinations which are capable of generating explanations and predictions that individual modules could not manage alone. The general benefits of modularization are demonstrated for a variety of applications, and the argument is made that modularizing our theories would facilitate refinement, integration, and problem solving. Included are several illustrations in which two or more formal theories or parts of theories from the small group literature in sociology are linked in useful ways. More explicit attention to modularizing formal theories from the outset should enhance the potential for easier integrations and solutions to a broader array of substantive problems and applications.