Question

Which of the following represents empirical evidence? Group of answer choices

a. A second-hand account of a researcher’s observations

b. A research study without controls identified

c. An experiment that outlines the methods used

d. A review of studies that have been conducted on vaccine safety

e. Research that cannot be repeated because the methodology isn’t clear

Answer 1

Empirical research needs data and a methodology since it is research that relies on results that can be seen or experienced ( empeirikos = experienced). Since the methods need to be clearly provided, option e is not acceptable in empirical studies. Also, an empirical study is based on one's observations, though the data can be through an experiment conducted by the team itself ( primary data) or someone else's data ( secondary data). So, repeating someone's observations without correlating it first yourself is not empirical evidence and therefore, option a is incorrect.

However, a study such as a survey ( which is an empirical research method)does not have controls but a group as a whole which gives its opinions and so study without controls is accepted. Also, if the methods are outlined in a clear fashion, it is considered to be empirical. if a person reviews existing literature so as to delineate the differences or similarities between the studies, this is also empirical evidence. So, option b, c, and d are empirical .