Question

Compare and contrast interpretive and empirical social science

Answer 1

Interpretive research is a form of qualitative research and empirical is a form of quantitative research. Empirical research includes empirical methods of collecting and analyzing data. It includes a standardized procedure to be followed. Interpretive research on the other hand is very subjective unlike empirical research. For instance, take psychometric testing into consideration, DAT, DBDA or intelligence tests like Wechsler's Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) are empirical studies. The test was developed through a standardized measure. However, on the other hand, projective tests like, Rorschach's ink blot test and Thematic Apperception Test (TAT) are interpretative tests because there is no empirical research that has taken place in the process of measurement. The results on these tests are an interpretation of the researcher based on the subject's impressions.