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The Significance of Social Theory in Music Education
- Philosophy of Music Education Review
- Indiana University Press
- Volume 29, Number 2, Fall 2021
- pp. 194-211
- 10.2979/philmusieducrevi.29.2.05
- Article
- Additional Information
Abstract:
This paper presents an argument that social theory has valuable roles to play in music education research and philosophy. I first discuss how theory can enhance and strengthen empirical work—and provide insights and connections that abstracted empiricism alone cannot. Then, I argue that social theory—developed, extended, and advanced through empirical research—is a vital component to meaningful philosophical propositions and lead to the positioning of solidarity over objectivity. Finally, I contend that social theory is an indispensable, never-ending quest for understanding power dynamics, uncovering ideology, and developing meaningful research projects.