What term is used to describe a general framework of ideas that can be used to answer questions about the world?

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A theory is a general framework of ideas that can be used to answer questions about the world. It is a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the world, based on empirical evidence. It goes beyond just a hypothesis, which is a tentative explanation for a phenomenon, and is supported by data and experimentation. The term "macrosystem" refers to a larger social system or context, while "defining concept" does not accurately describe a theory.

What Term Is Used to Describe a General Framework of Ideas