| Summary: | Throughout history, the progress of human
society has been propelled by continuous
accumulation of experience. People distill
patterns and rules out of their experience that contribute to broader applicability. This is how preliminary theories are formulated.
The preliminary theory can further develop in
two directions. One is to use the theory for practical applications such as to increase agricultural output, to invent new medical instruments and to raise production of electric appliances. The other direction
is to explore ultra microstructures and to uncover the fundamentals of natural phenomena, resulting in further development of the theory. In the fi rst case,
incremental improvements are possible without revamping the theoretical foundation. However, theoretical breakthroughs are required for major
innovations such as development of jumbo jets, operation of high speed rails and manufacture of nuclear powered aircraft carriers. In the case of today’s pure theory sciences such as archaeology, geophysics and ecological studies, as people become more knowledgeable about the world, it is
possible for these theories to gradually reveal their practical implications and guide human practice to advance social development.
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