In: Psychology
1. when is anecdotal evidence reliable and when is it unreliable?
2. why is science reliable?
SHORT ANSWER PLS
Answer- 1- In our daily life, we decide that something is good or bad without any scientific evidence. Our conclusions are based on any advertisements, friends' opinion etc. This testimony is reffered as anecdotal evidence which is acquired by anecdotes. Anecdotes mean evidence collected in a casual manner and based heavily on personal opinions. Anecdotal evidence is limited in value because of many drawbacks but within scientific method, some anecdotal evidence are recognized as reliable. For example, the case studies used in medicine, witness testimony in courts.
Anecdotal evidence are mostly unreliable and considered as stories made by people. These are very small and biased sample. The anecdotal evidence are unreliable due to casual observation in uncontrolled circumstances.
Answer- 2- Science is reliable because it explains about the natural world, how it works. It just not provides us the facts but also gives us an understanding regarding everything available in this world. Scientific ideas are reliable because they are based on meticulous testing and experiments. Science is based on a system of check and balances and is very important for living a peaceful life today.