Alastair Henry, Lund University

As a reviewer, it is often easy to see when there is something questionable or ‘wrong’ with a method. For example, we might ask whether it is reasonable to assume a causal relationship based on an obtained correlation between two variables. It might be easy to detect questionable definitions of a construct, and problems in its operationalization. However, we might feel less confident when it comes to theory. With limited space for critical reasoning in research outputs, it can be easy to assume that a conceptualization is robust, and that a theory is sound. What happens though if a theory is ‘wrong’? And what happens if problems remain undetected? In this talk, I will reflect on the current debate on the L2 Motivational Self System (L2MSS: Dörnyei, 2009) and whether it is the theory itself, rather than its application, that is ‘wrong’. Drawing on work carried out by LAMiNATE researchers, I will offer a nuanced appraisal of Dörnyei’s theorizing and the ways in which it might continue to be of value in a post-L2MSS era.