metatheory
n. a higher order theory about theories, allowing one to analyze, compare, and evaluate competing bodies of ideas. The concept of a metatheory suggests that theories derive from other theories, so that there are always prior theoretical assumptions and commitments behind any theoretical formulation. It follows that these prior assumptions and commitments are worthy of study in their own right, and an understanding of them is essential to a full understanding of derivative theories. —metatheoretical
adj.