Metatheory

A metatheory or meta-theory is a theory on a subject matter that is a theory in itself.^[1] Analyses or descriptions of an existing theory would be considered meta-theories.^[2] If the subject matter of a theoretical statement consists of one or multiple theories, it would also be called a meta-theory.^[3] For mathematics and mathematical logic, a metatheory is a mathematical theory about another mathematical theory.^[4] Meta-theoretical investigations are part of the philosophy of science.^[5] The topic of metascience is an attempt to use scientific knowledge to improve the practice of science itself.

The study of metatheory became widespread during the 20th century after its application to various topics, including scientific linguistics and its concept of metalanguage.

^ Merriam-Webster, Definition of metatheory
^ Walter L. Wallace, Metatheory. In: Encyclopedia of Sociology, Encyclopedia.com
^ Ch. Mahmood Anwar, What is Metatheory? An easy explanation with example of Self determination theory, [1]
^ Baker, W. J.; Mos, Leendert P.; Rappard, Hans V.; Stam, Henderikus J. (2012). Recent Trends in Theoretical Psychology: Proceedings of the Second Biannual Conference of the International Society for Theoretical Psychology, April 20–25, 1987, Banff, Alberta, Canada. New York: Springer-Verlag. ISBN 9780387967578.
^ Haas, Emily J.; Mattson, Marifran (2015). Metatheory and Interviewing: Harm Reduction and Motorcycle Safety in Practice. Lanham, MD: Lexington Books. p. 11. ISBN 978-0-7391-8057-0.

[1] Merriam-Webster, Definition of metatheory

[2] Walter L. Wallace, Metatheory. In: Encyclopedia of Sociology, Encyclopedia.com

[3] Ch. Mahmood Anwar, What is Metatheory? An easy explanation with example of Self determination theory, [1]

[4] Baker, W. J.; Mos, Leendert P.; Rappard, Hans V.; Stam, Henderikus J. (2012). Recent Trends in Theoretical Psychology: Proceedings of the Second Biannual Conference of the International Society for Theoretical Psychology, April 20–25, 1987, Banff, Alberta, Canada. New York: Springer-Verlag. ISBN 9780387967578.

[5] Haas, Emily J.; Mattson, Marifran (2015). Metatheory and Interviewing: Harm Reduction and Motorcycle Safety in Practice. Lanham, MD: Lexington Books. p. 11. ISBN 978-0-7391-8057-0.

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