Theory

A theory is an analytical approach. It typically includes both known facts and ideas about how things work. In the common parlance, a theory is simply an idea, not necessarily supported by evidence. In science, a theory is a well-supported model of how things work, that accounts for all known relevant facts, is falsifiable, and verifiable by experiment. In the humanities and social sciences, theory is a systematic approach.

Critical theory is one type of theory, coming out of the humanities and social sciences. Critical theory examines human society and human texts through the lens of various bodies of knowledge and systematic approaches.