Questions, Theories, Conjectures, and Hypotheses
Questions
A question is an expression of inquiry that invites or calls for a reply. Research is typically motivated by a question.
“Why do Beethoven’s metronome markings seem so fast?”
Conjectures
A conjecture is a supposition or speculative claim made about the world. Conjectures are not directly testable.
“The first musical instruments were probably drums.”
Hypotheses
A hypothesis is a testable conjecture. It is a claim or prediction that can, in principle be compared to existing or future observations.
“The music people experience as adolescents will remain the most emotionally important music throughout their lives.”
Theories
A theory is an explanatory framework for understanding a phenomenon. Theories typically propose some cause — as in “X causes or influences Y.” Theories often involve words like “because,” “due to,” “affects,” “influences,” or “causes.” Theories themselves are rarely directly testable. Theories are used to generate conjectures and hypotheses.
“The reason why music from adolescence is so memorable is because of the high levels of the hormone oxytocin experienced during adolescence.”