The Dangers of Theory-Based Design

In an earlier paper (Wilson, 1997), I expressed an ambivalent stance toward theory: On the one hand, I am instinctively drawn to intellectual debates and to theoretical discussions. Just like music and literature, a good theory is something to appreciate aesthetically. And the practical impact of powerful ideas can be enormous. On the other hand, I have grown increasing wary of how theory is commonly used and abused--when talking amongst ourselves, and when working on problems of practice.