... project to move through its various stages, each delivering some form of intermediate result. Each stage is then further subdivided into specific tasks with which methods and tooIs are associated. Hence abstract rationality principles are given concrete operational meaning by suggesting methods and tools that help the analyst to accomplish particular tasks. Methods and tools help to put specific concepts of rationality into practice. The following analysis of rationality concepts adds to the above ideas by viewing methodologies as mental constructs that structure complex sequences of "social action" and give them an overall meaning (Episkopou, 1987). In this paper we adopt Weber's (1947) notion of social action. He states: Action is social in so far as, by virtue of the subjective meaning attached to it by the acting individual (or individu~s), it takes account of the behavior of others and is thereby oriented in its course. (p. 88) As systems are developed for the sake of helping others (or helping one's own interaction with ...

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