disquisition

noun2

1. •
   A lengthy, formal discourse that analyses or explains some topic; (loosely) a dissertation or treatise.

   • Upon this account political disquisitions, if just, and reasonable, and practicable, are of all the works of speculation the most useful. — 1759
2. •
   A methodical inquiry or investigation.

   • The usual accusation against [Robert] Browning is that he was consumed with logic; that he thought all subjects to be the proper pabulum of intellectual disquisition; […] — 1903