Compare and contrast two quotes. Social Sciences Essay

Compare and Contrast Two Quotes
Student Name
Institution
Date
The debate between natural and social sciences has been intense over the years as some scholars seek to demonstrate both share significant characteristics while others holding that the two are different. The debates have often focused on the rules of scientific methods used to test theories. On the one hand, some individuals hold that the same prime of scientific methods used in natural “hard” sciences are also applied in social “soft” sciences. Such a view sees both as requiring rigorous scientific approached to achieve the set objectives. Such a position, consequently holds that natural sciences do not differ from social sciences, hence “Science is science.” On the contrary, some scholars view social sciences as distinct from natural sciences. Such authors even see differences among the various disciplines in both the “hard” and “soft” sciences. Hence, instead of reconciling both, these scholars believe that they should be approached from different perspectives. Such a difference is demonstrated by two authors, Stephen Van Evera and Susan Strange. Whereas Evera’s quote demonstrates the need to consider both “hard” and “soft” sciences as sciences, Strange’s quote shows that these are distinct and should be considered so.
Summary of the Quotes
Evera’s quote endeavors to address the misconception that “hard” sciences are more scientific compared to the “soft” sciences. Over the years, there has been an attempt to draw the line between the two. “Hard” sciences like physics and chemistry are considered to use rigorous, quantitative methods. On the contrary, the “soft” sciences like psychology and sociology are termed as less vigorous due to their use of qualitative methods. However, the rigor of scientific study has less to do with the discipline and more with the researcher’s approach. For instance, a majority of psychological investigations rely on large samples and are highly controlled, hence they are highly quantitative. Consequently, Evera implies that as it is the case with natural sciences, the social sciences research should be done in a systematic and evidence-based manner, so results in conclusions regarding the causality. The quote also demonstrates that the tools used in the study of the natural world are the same as those used in the study of the social world. Similarly, the same standards are applied to test the theories in both categories.
Strange’s quote demonstrates the wide gap that exists among the people who hold different views on issues regarding world politics or in international political economy. The wide gap prevents learners from exploring different ideas across various viewpoints. The move prevents students from exploring ideas from realists, liberals, Marxists or radicals. Similarly, the proponents of the various viewpoints do not engage in substantial debates. They appear to belong to different worlds, such that their worlds never cross. Hence, learners cannot pursue different viewpoints. They have to choose one, say Marxism and stick to it. No debates are encouraged b...