In science, experiments are widely used. Are experiments better than observational studies? Discuss the merits and shortcomings of both types of studies.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Both experimental and observational studies have their place in science, and one is not better than the other. Instead, each method brings its own strengths and weaknesses, and each one is best used in a specific context. Observational studies involve the observation of the natural world without any manipulation; they are most useful when scientists cannot ethically carry out an experiment (on human health, or on an ecosystem for instance), and can generate important knowledge about how the world works. As such, observational studies provide highly realistic knowledge. One drawback of observational studies is that, since there is no manipulation, there is no causal relationships that can be determined. Experimental studies involve the manipulation of one or more variables; they are most useful in determining a cause-and-effect relationship. They are less realistic than observational studies, and can sometimes generate artificial results that would not occur in the natural world.