Analytic Ordering for Theoretical Purposes

Abstract

This article discusses why and how to make explicit the linkages between interaction and conditions affecting both the interaction and its consequences. The discussion aims at (a) extending the range of conditions/conseguences considered by researchers; (b) forcing self-consciousness in their analytic choices among these; (c) helping to trace the often-intricate connections among them, thus (d) facilitating their ordering into explanatory hypotheses and their testing; (e) ensuring, or raising the probability, that explanations encompass variation; and (f) ultimately enabling presentation of a more orderly, com plete, and persuasive explanatory account. To this end, an updated version of our conditional matrix and what are now termed connectivity paths are outlined and illustrated.