Why is scientific inquiry more difficult in the social sciences than in the physical sciences?

What will be an ideal response?


There are several reasons why scientific inquiry is more difficult in the social sciences. (1) Social scientists deal with human subjects and the many variables that influence human behavior. Physical scientists deal with physical and biological phenomena that behave lawfully. (2) Observation is more difficult in the social sciences because it requires more subjective interpretation of behaviors. Human behavior may be changed because of the presence of the observer. (3) Replication is more difficult, because social phenomena are singular events and cannot be totally repeated. (4) The social scientist cannot have the control in a study that the physical scientists have in a laboratory.(5) Measurement of variables is less precise in the social sciences.

Education

You might also like to view...

Young boys and girls play in about the same way

Indicate whether the statement is true or false.

Education

A psychologist who insists that infants as young as 4 months are able to form mental representations is likely to be working within which theoretical framework?

genetic behaviorist cognitivist constructivist cultural

Education

(p. 47) What is the belief behind a primary-caregiver system?

A. Paying special attention to three or four children promotes strong attachment. B. Teachers can care for infants, toddlers, and primary students. C. Infant-toddler classrooms should have a 1:1 ratio. D. Caring for a whole group of children is most effective.

Education

When you use a(n) ____________________ card, the money is automatically subtracted from your checking or savings account

Fill in the blank(s) with correct word

Education