Document Type : Original Article
Abstract
Keywords
Article Title [العربیة]
Theorization, as a complex and multilayered process, requires a profound understanding of its constitutive elements and layers. Drawing on the metaphor of the onion—and inspired by a scientific journey into the world of onions—this paper delves into the very heart of the theorization process. Instead of relying on traditional approaches, the study utilizes the onion metaphor to examine the structure and various layers of the scientific process through which theories are formed and evolved, offering a more coherent and comprehensible framework. Each layer represents a fundamental aspect of theorization that contributes to the production of knowledge and theory-building, ultimately converging toward the central core—the theory itself. These layers include the school of thought, paradigm, philosophical foundations, principles, policies, guidelines, methodology, research methods, general outlook or orientation, and the theorist’s personal approach or perspective.
The purpose of this paper is to present a comprehensive framework for better understanding the theorization process and to facilitate knowledge production across diverse scientific and social domains. Through a descriptive–analytical–ijtihadic method, this study explores the remarkable similarities between the multilayered peeling process of an onion and the complex, multistage nature of theorization, aiming to propose the “Onion of Theorization” as a model for evaluating and assessing theories.
Keywords [العربیة]
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