Empirical evidence is information obtained through direct or indirect observation, experience, or experimentation that can be measured or observed by the senses. It is used to confirm or disprove hypotheses and claims, forming a fundamental part of the scientific method and empirical research
. Key aspects of empirical evidence include:
- It is gathered through sensory experience or experimental procedures, such as observation, measurement, and documentation of behaviors or patterns
- It can be qualitative (descriptive, non-measurable data) or quantitative (measurable data)
- It is essential for validating or falsifying scientific hypotheses and theories, providing objective and repeatable data that others can verify
- Empirical evidence distinguishes itself from a priori knowledge, which is justified independently of experience
- The process of collecting empirical evidence is known as empirical research, which must be carefully designed to minimize bias and errors
In summary, empirical evidence is tangible, observable data collected from the real world through systematic observation or experimentation, serving as the foundation for scientific knowledge and rational inquiry
