What is the major theoretical framework of research?

What is the major theoretical framework of research?
If you find yourself asking this question, you are likely in the initial stages of research because most scholars would probably agree on the simple answer: there is none.

Or rather, perhaps more fairly, it depends. Different fields undergo various trends of theoretical influence. For example, the Cold War brought about a dominance of certain kinds of thinking in different parts of the world, something which not only affected policymakers but academics as well.

It is important to note though that the premise of the question is slightly flawed. By asking for the "major" framework, there is implied a quality of value. Theoretical frameworks are not stagnant; many carry with them long histories and an on-going dialogue over its place in a given field. To engage in an academic debate, it is necessary to know what is being done in the here and now, and overall understanding how your research fits into the field at large.

Similarly, you must first be specific as to what research you are interested in. Clearly different fields have different theories.

In short, if anyone were to answer this in a straight-forward way (e.g. realism!), they are doing a disservice to the heart of the inquiry.