My spin on this one....
Theory helps one understand the "How and Why" something works. By stating
a theory, we begin to change our mental models of the world. Since cause
> effect and effect > cause in complex systems, by changing HOW we see the
world (or organization), it actually starts allowing change to emerge. We
use a different filter (or lens) of the incoming information and start to
"see" evidence to support our theory.
Without theory, there is no conscious learning. So the theory helps us
"change our mind" which allows "physical" change to occur. Thought >
detail > action
"If you want to change the world, start by changing your mind"
take care,
Chuck Wallace
--Learning-org -- Hosted by Rick Karash <rkarash@karash.com> Public Dialog on Learning Organizations -- <http://www.learning-org.com>