The empirical and the normative

the empirical - what is

the normative - what ought to be

Using observation:

1. gather as much relevant data about the phenomenon as possible

2. use that data to figure out why the phenomenon is what it is or why it works the way it does

good empirical observation requires a willingness to dig deeper

Normative View

Using value systems:

1. erect standards by which to make an evaluation or judgment

these standards can be technical, moral etc.

2. bring ethical norms into the discussion