Applied work addresses a problem and seeks appropriate theoretical tools. Academics don t see the value of the applied work then, and look down on it because it is presented in non-academic language. Different write up methods necessary because applied reports have to be in plain English. Academics want to see erudite language only they can understand. Applied anthropology does have its own theory, or it is emerging.
Truth emerges through engagement.
If social institutions don t value it they will cease to support anthropology as a separate discipline, won t support any study. The discipline is threatened if it is not useful to the society that supports it. Tells us what facts will be relevant. A model is a simplification, but helps guide what to be looking at. Theory defines data, therefore method.