Editing Theoretical definition (section)

==In different fields==

===Sciences===

The term [[scientific theory]] is reserved for concepts that are widely accepted. A [[scientific law]] often refers to regularities that can be expressed by a mathematical statement. However, there is no consensus about the distinction between these terms.<ref>[http://science.kennesaw.edu/~rmatson/3380theory.html Scientific Laws And Theories]. Retrieved 5 December 2016.</ref> Every scientific concept must have an [[operational definition]], however the operational definition can use both direct observations and [[latent variables]].<ref name="research methods">{{cite book|last1=Watt|first1=James H.|last2=van den Berg|first2=Sjef|title=Philosophy of Science, Empiricism, and the Scientific Method|date=2002|pages=11|url=http://www.cios.org/readbook/rmcs/rmcs.htm|access-date=24 March 2015|ref=Chapter 2 - Elements of Scientific Theories: Concepts and Definitions}}</ref>

====Natural sciences====
In the natural sciences, a concept is an abstract conclusion drawn from observations.<ref name="research methods" />

====Social and health sciences====
Social and health sciences interact with non-empirical fields and use both observation based and pre-existing concepts such as intelligence, race, and gender.

*  In psychology the term "conceptual definition" is used for a concept variable.<ref>[http://www.rit.edu/cla/gssp400/lectures/l5.html Hypotheses]. Retrieved on 5 December 2016.</ref>

===Interdisciplinary===
Most [[interdisciplinary]] fields are designed to address specific real world concerns and the status of theoretical definitions in interdisciplinary fields is still evolving.<ref>[http://www.sagepub.com/upm-data/43242_1.pdf Defining Interdisciplinary Studies]. Retrieved on 5 December 2016.</ref>