“Nothing is so practical as a good theory; nothing is so theoretical as a good practical problem.” – Kurt Lewin
On the one hand, a good practical problem can inspire new theoretical constructions. On the other hand, a theory’s agility to offer solutions to complex, important practical problems is a selection criterion in the marketplace of ideas — sticky theories are selected for propagation because they afford bold answers to big questions.
Research impact is…
“The demonstrable contributions, beneficial effects, valuable changes or advantages that research qualitatively brings to the economy, society, culture, public policy or services, health, the environment or quality of life whether locally, regionally or internationally; and that are beyond academia.”
Research Assessment Exercise 2026 [1]
“The good that researchers can do in the world.”
Professor Mark Reed, Scotland’s Rural College [2]
Building on our commitment to research excellence and real- world impact, our work generates a wide range of effects beyond academia. Social science spans many disciplines and specialisms. Collectively, these diverse methods enable us to pursue multiple, complementary routes to meaningful research impact.
Reference:
[1] University Grants Committee (2024). Guidance Notes for Research Assessment Exercise 2026. https://www.ugc.edu.hk/doc/eng/ugc/rae/2026/gn_jul24.pdf
[2] Reed, M. S. (2025). The Research Impact Handbook (3rd ed.). Routledge. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003615019
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