Chapter 2: Problem 7

Would a research study on the effects of soft drink consumption on children's cognitive development be a positive or normative statement?

Short Answer

Expert verified

A research study on the effects of soft drink consumption on children's cognitive development cannot be directly categorized as a positive or normative statement, as it is not a statement itself. However, the results derived from the study can form the basis for both positive and normative statements, depending on whether they can be proven true or false using facts, or if they express an opinion on how things should be.

Step by step solution

Understanding the Difference Between Positive and Normative Statements

Positive statements are factual and can be tested or proven wrong using evidence. They don't necessarily need to be true or false, but they must be capable of being tested and potentially disproven. Normative statements, on the other hand, are based on values and express an opinion. They make a claim about how the world ought to be.

Evaluating the Statement of the Study

The study is about the effects of soft drink consumption on children's cognitive development. The outcome of this study is not clear from the question, and we don’t know what judgment or conclusions the study makes.

Determining if the Study is a Statement

A study like this one is a means to collect evidence and facts. It is created to test a hypothesis or assess an effect. Though a study could lead to or provide the basis for normative statements, the study itself is not a statement.

Final Conclusion

As such, a research study cannot be categorized directly as either a positive or normative statement, because it is not a statement at all. But the results derived from the study can form the basis for both positive and normative statements. If the statement from the study can be proven true or false through the use of facts, then it would be a positive statement. If the study delivers an opinion on how things should be, then the statement would be normative.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

Full Textbook Solutions
Get detailed explanations and key concepts
Unlimited Al creation
Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...
Ads-free access
To over 500 millions flashcards
Money-back guarantee
We refund you if you fail your exam.

Start your free trial

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!