A theory is a way of viewing or seeing. A social theory is a set of organized assumptions of what drivers are seen as important to a social phenomenon or to social phenomena. As a framework, a theory focuses on specific dynamics and actors. It provides a normative account of what purposes actors ought to pursue, and 'thinking spaces' which focus on particular issues or problems.

A theory can also be an ideology (a set of ideas) that inform action. With theory, there should be reflection by persons immersing themselves into the theory, so that they can develop their own thoughtful perspectives on the phenomena being considered. PROUT as a theory is that calls for such reflections. In addition, theory helps to understand the changing nature of power relations in society and to transform it. 

The social cycle encapsulates a cyclical theory of social evolution, where society transitions through different ages or eras dominated by particular social classes. This perspective is somewhat reminiscent of the theories proposed by thinkers like Ibn Khaldun, who posited that empires and societies pass through cycles. Similarly, Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar in his social cycle theory (also known as the theory of social dynamics) posits that societies pass through cycles.