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A theory is an idea that you can use as a framework or lens to analyze a specific work or phenomenon (such as a building, or a social practice).

For example, Critical Race Theory is a theory that states that institutionalized racism can be perpetuated by institutions alone with no individuals who are bad actors. That is a theory because it is an idea you can use to analyze many different things.

You can then use Critical Race Theory to analyze how zoning laws have increased wealth disparities along racial lines. That would not be a theory because it is specific to a specific situation.

Sometimes when an idea is new, it is first viewed as just an idea or criticism, and then as it gains influence and people use it as a lens through which to look as things, then it becomes a theory.

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