"A theoretical system does not merely state facts which have been observed and that logically deducible relations to other facts which have also been observed"

This quote by Talcott Parsons is referring to the concept of a theoretical system. A theoretical system is a set of concepts or principles that are used to discuss a phenomenon or set of phenomena. It is not merely a collection of truths, but rather a set of sensible deductions based upon those realities. The quote is highlighting that a theoretical system is not just a list of facts, but rather a set of rational reductions that can be made from those facts. It is a method of understanding the world around us and understanding the information we have. By using a theoretical system, we can make predictions about the future and gain a better understanding of the world. In short, a theoretical system is a method of making sense of the world around us and utilizing the information we have to make rational deductions and forecasts.