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Chapter 2: Problem 16

What is the difference between a positive and a normative statement?

Short Answer

Expert verified
The difference between a positive and a normative statement is that a positive statement is objective and based on factual, testable observations of reality, while a normative statement is subjective and based on personal beliefs, opinions, or value judgments about how things should be.

Step by step solution

01

Define Positive Statement

A positive statement is a factual statement that can be tested or verified using data and facts. It describes "what is" rather than "what should be." A positive statement is objective and is independent of personal beliefs or opinions.
02

Define Normative Statement

A normative statement is a statement that expresses an opinion or a value judgement about a particular issue or subject. Normative statements describe "what should be" rather than "what is." They are subjective and can vary from person to person.
03

Distinguish between Positive and Normative Statements

The main differences between a positive and a normative statement are: 1. Positive statements are objective, while normative statements are subjective. 2. Positive statements describe observed reality and can be tested or verified, whereas normative statements describe ideal situations or value judgements that cannot be tested. 3. Positive statements do not involve personal beliefs or opinions, while normative statements are based on opinions and are often influenced by individual beliefs. To sum it up, a positive statement is a testable and objective statement about reality, while a normative statement is a subjective statement about how things should be, according to an individual's values or beliefs.

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