Theory

A theory explains a problem, paired with evidence or a method for demonstrating the answer. A theory should not be based simply on assertions (otherwise, it is an opinion).

How does development actually happen? Modernization theory says “growth first.” Institutional theory says “good institutions first.” Yuen Yuen Ang’s coevolutionary theory says: Neither is correct. Development is a three-step, coevolutionary process that begins with “using what you have.”

Ang’s evidence includes detailed process-tracing using qualitative and historical data, though other studies have validated aspects of my theory through statistical analyses.