Abstract theory is clarified only through concrete applied cases

Evidence

Motivation for the purer theory came almost exclusively from preoccupation with (and fascination with) “applied” problems; and the clarification of theoretical ideas was absolutely dependent on an identification of live examples. — Thomas C. Schelling, The Strategy of Conflict, 11

Categorization

• XREF: Mirrors the reader’s own method of using The Godfather’s concrete scenes to test Gambetta and Milgrom’s abstract models — theory follows applied cases. — connects to: A single concrete example can prove existence but not more; Purely mathematical theories can gain unforeseen practical applications — G. H. Hardy, A Mathematician’s Apology, 265; Concrete understanding requires adding determinations, not invoking inert background (+11 more)

Related

• Moving from abstract theory to concrete analysis requires adding new concepts (similarity 0.88)
• Mastering a theory’s principles alone does not ensure correct application (similarity 0.86)
• Theory aims to think concrete objects through their multiple interrelations (similarity 0.86)
• Method can fail through either dogmatic generality or atomistic localism (similarity 0.81)

Broader Connections

• Rules without concrete instances are meaningless hindrances #corroborates (0.85) — Burton, Steven J, An Introduction to Law and Legal…, 148
• A true but incomplete theory can make its holder misread anomalies #expands (0.80)
• A single concrete example can prove existence but not more #complicates (0.75)
• Philosophical refutations are seldom final and merely precede further refinements #qualifies (0.75) — Bertrand Russell, History of Western Philosophy, 295
• Purely mathematical theories can gain unforeseen practical applications #complicates (0.72) — G. H. Hardy, A Mathematician’s Apology, 265
• Concrete understanding requires adding determinations, not invoking inert background #expands (0.72)