What is it about theories in the human sciences and natural sciences that makes them convincing?

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Theories are unproven hypotheses that serve as explanations for observations and events, so they must have a way of convincing people that they are true. A theory’s objectives are to explain and predict a phenomenon. Most ideas are not convincing without solid evidence or proof. The human sciences and natural sciences have different ways of showing the validity of a hypothesis. The natural sciences, which include subject areas such as physics, chemistry, and biology, depend on physical proof through experiments with several trials. The human sciences, which include subject areas such as sociology, economics, anthropology, and psychology, are based on human interaction, logic, and the collection of data.

Information about both areas of knowledge can be gained through sense perception, reason, and emotion. An idea in the natural sciences must be pragmatic in order to confirm its authenticity. For example I have done several experiments in my chemistry class this year. The experiments always start off with hypotheses that can be tested. It is vital to test the experiment multiple times in order to decrease the chances of making errors. Numerous trials also increase the chances of the experiment producing the expected results. During an experiment, sense perception is used to collect data. Changes that can be seen, heard, smelled, or felt support the hypothesis and make it even more convincing. Observations through sense perception are clearly one of the most important factors in determining whether or not an experiment is valid.

As for the human sciences, theories cannot always be tested. Sometimes logic and inferences must be used in order to come to a conclusion. Reason and emotion play a significant role in how persuasive a theo...

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...make scientific theories convincing. Substantial evidence can make the biggest skeptic a believer. If the evidence is clearly justified, then there is little room to argue that a theory is false. A detailed explanation can also make a theory convincing, and without one it would be difficult to believe that it is true. If a scientist takes the time to clearly explain his experiment and the evidence, more people will understand and accept the theory. Overall, the theories in the human and natural sciences are convincing because of their supporting details and way that they are presented.

Works Cited

Abel, Reuben. Man is the Measure. New York: The Free Press, 1976. Print.

"Biology." Encyclopedia Britannica. Encyclopedia Britannica Online School Edition.

Encyclopedia Britannica, Inc., 2011. Web.15 Dec. 2011.

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