Diversity Quote by Elinor Ostrom
“The power of a theory is exactly proportional to the diversity of situations it can explain.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Governing the Commons, Elinor Ostrom, 1990
The strength of a theory grows with the range of different situations it can successfully explain.
In simple terms: A theory is stronger when it fits many cases.
Seek broad applicability in ideas.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy design
- scientific research
- education
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What contexts does your theory fail to explain?
- How can you balance breadth and depth?
A theory may become too vague if it tries to cover everything.