Which of the following terms describes theories that are based on the internal consistency of a theory?

The term that describes theories which are based on the internal consistency of a theory is logical soundness. This concept refers to the idea that the arguments and claims made within a theory should follow a coherent and rational structure. A logically sound theory enables the derivation of conclusions that are valid and well-supported by the theoretical framework itself.

In the context of criminological theories, logical soundness ensures that the propositions made are not only consistent with each other but also fit well within the broader scope of knowledge in the field. This internal consistency is critical because it makes the theory more compelling and acceptable among scholars and practitioners alike.

For instance, if a theory makes claims about the causes of criminal behavior, and these claims logically align with each other, then the theory is deemed to have a strong logical foundation. This makes it easier for researchers to build further on the theory or apply it to practical scenarios in crime prevention or intervention. The other terms, while important in theory evaluation, focus on different aspects: parsimony relates to simplicity, empirical validity concerns consistency with data, and testability refers to the ability to be observed or tested.