Overcoming Skepticism: Proving Social Sciences are Indeed Sciences
It is indeed challenging to convince certain individuals that social and behavioral sciences should be recognized as true sciences, often paralleling the difficulty of getting others to accept facts in hard sciences. When discussing macroeconomics with a dedicated Trump voter or bringing up the science of marriage in a committed believer's domain, the chances of acceptance are slim unless you align closely with their pre-existing beliefs.
The Psychological Obstacle
Humans have a tendency to defend beliefs that are consistent with worldviews and identities. This resistance is rooted in emotional and psychological comfort, which makes it difficult to shift long-held beliefs. Social and behavioral sciences (SSBS) often face this challenge, especially when their findings are in direct conflict with deeply held convictions. For example, discussing the benefits of foreign trade with someone who believes it does more harm than good is a futile endeavor without addressing these preconceptions.
The Scientific Approach
Despite these obstacles, the core of SSBS aligns closely with traditional scientific principles. Unlike the rigid, mechanistic view some may hold, the approach to human behavior incorporates both objective and subjective elements. For instance, in sociology, understanding the complex nature of human emotions is just as critical as conducting empirical studies. However, this does not detract from the scientific rigor and the foundational principles that govern these disciplines.
Aligning with Scientific Principles
Alfred Rosenblum, in his detailed lecture notes (Sociology as Sci), highlights how the scientific method is applied in the social and behavioral sciences. Objectivity, testable hypotheses, careful observations, experiments, and the integration of logic and mathematics form a robust framework, akin to that found in other sciences. The relative proportions of these may vary according to the topic, but the core principles remain consistent.
For instance, in macroeconomics, mathematical models and experimental methods are heavily utilized, whereas social sciences like studies on marriage might rely more on qualitative observations. However, these differences do not invalidate the scientific value of these fields. Ecologists, for example, often use minimal experiments compared to physicists who might use extensive laboratory testing and computational modeling.
Theoretical and Empirical Support
A large body of well-established knowledge in SSBS has a solid theoretical basis and empirical support. One such example is the theory of comparative advantage, a concept widely accepted in economic theory but often counterintuitive to laypeople. This idea, which suggests that nations can benefit from specializing in the production of goods for which they have a comparative advantage, has withstood the test of time and continues to influence global trade policies.
Moreover, SSBS have contributed powerful technologies that have tangible benefits. Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), for example, is just as effective as medication in treating depression. CBT has been extensively researched and proven to be a reliable and effective treatment method, demonstrating the practical application of social and behavioral science.
Conclusion
While it is true that social and behavioral sciences often face skepticism due to the humanistic and emotional aspects of their subjects, the scientific method and the empirical evidence they provide are robust and credible. By acknowledging and integrating these scientific principles, it is possible to effectively communicate the value and relevance of SSBS to a broader audience, transcending preconceived notions and leading to a more comprehensive understanding of the world around us.