Written in a clear and authoritative style, this book defines and critically assesses existing approaches to the theory-research relationship. Derek Layder situates his discussion in the context of current social theory and the philosophy of social science. But he is concerned to develop clear and usable strategies to encourage theory development in the practical context of social research. Wide ranging and innovative, the author provides readers with a penetrating analysis of the relationship between theory and research and a set of challenging proposals for better practice in the future.