Normative and Positive Science

Normative and positive science are two distinct branches of science that approach the study of human behavior and social phenomena in different ways. While both branches strive to understand social behavior, they differ in their focus and methodology. In this article, we will explore the differences between normative and positive science.

Normative Science

Normative science is concerned with issues of value, morality, and ethics. It is concerned with how things ought to be rather than how they are. Normative science seeks to establish standards of behavior and provide guidance on what is right or wrong. It is based on subjective judgments that are influenced by cultural, religious, and personal beliefs.

Examples of normative sciences include:

- Ethics
- Political Science
- Law
- Philosophy

Positive Science

Positive science, on the other hand, is concerned with observable facts and seeks to describe and explain social behavior. It is based on objective data that can be measured and analyzed. Positive science is concerned with how things are rather than how they ought to be.

Examples of positive sciences include:

- Sociology
- Psychology
- Anthropology
- Economics

Differences Between Normative and Positive Science

There are several key differences between normative and positive science:

1. Focus

Normative science is concerned with how things ought to be, while positive science is concerned with how things are.

2. Methodology

Normative science is based on subjective judgments and values, while positive science is based on objective data and empirical evidence.

3. Subject Matter

Normative science deals with issues of morality, ethics, and values, while positive science deals with observable facts.

4. Purpose

The purpose of normative science is to establish standards of behavior and provide guidance on what is right or wrong, while the purpose of positive science is to describe and explain social behavior.

Conclusion

In summary, normative and positive science are two distinct branches of science that approach the study of human behavior and social phenomena in different ways. While normative science is concerned with issues of value, morality, and ethics, positive science is concerned with observable facts and seeks to describe and explain social behavior. Understanding the differences between these two branches of science is essential for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners who seek to understand and influence social behavior.