Re: The term "theory" as in "database theory"

On Jan 26, 4:26 pm, Chris Smith <cdsm..._at_twu.net> wrote:
> dawn <dawnwolth..._at_gmail.com> wrote:
> > I have been working on a question related to the term "theory" and
> > decided I first should get a better idea of what this term means to
> > others. Below is the dictionary.com list of definitions. Which of the
> > following comes closest to the use of the term "theory" in this ng as
> > in "database theory", or is there another someone wants to provide?

. The definitions have a lot in common, so there is a good bit of overlap.
> I'd say that "database theory" is closest to definitions and #4, with a
> fair bit of definitions #3 and #1,

I'm interested in your choice of #1 because I think it has to be this perspective that gets any mention of Occam's razor into the mix. What phenomena is being explained by "database theory"? This is very honest question. I do not see how this definition could relate to this topic, but perhaps there is some view regarding the existance of something, such as human language or logic, where people think database theory is providing an explanation. ?? Very curious about this if you could expound on it.

> and intersects with definition #5
> only incidentally. Definitions #2, #6, and #7 are a completely
> different usage of the word.

I would pick 3, 4, and 5 as having some validity for what we mean with "database theory", so the only one on which we disagree is #1. As it turns out, the Occam's razor train of thought, which I think only relates to #1 or maybe also #2, is one thing that convinced me in the 80's to make a pitch for the use of DB2 instead of IMS, as I was definitely taken in by the marketing buzz about relational databases having mathematical backing, as well as being a simpler form for data (than IMS) that works (along with all of the other rationale given at the time regarding pointers, maintainability, etc). [So, at one point in time, I drank the koolaid too ;-) big wink]

Thanks. --dawn

> > "1. a coherent group of general propositions used as principles of
> > explanation for a class of phenomena: Einstein's theory of relativity.
> > 2. a proposed explanation whose status is still conjectural, in
> > contrast to well-established propositions that are regarded as
> > reporting matters of actual fact.
> > 3. Mathematics. a body of principles, theorems, or the like, belonging
> > to one subject: number theory.
> > 4. the branch of a science or art that deals with its principles or
> > methods, as distinguished from its practice: music theory.
> > 5. a particular conception or view of something to be done or of the
> > method of doing it; a system of rules or principles.
> > 6. contemplation or speculation.
> > 7. guess or conjecture."--
> Chris Smith
Received on Sat Jan 27 2007 - 00:19:51 CET