In this course, deductive logic will be the primary engine of analysis. Given a set of assumptions deduce a conclusion. Positive vs. Normative Reflecting the binary nature of economics as a 'social' 'science', two types of statements and questions can be made. Such observations produce 'empirical evidence' - both statistical and descriptive. Some phenomena are subject to statistical measurement through government agencies such as Statistic Canada or by private agencies such as trade associations.
Statistical measures are, however, subject to limitations.
Thus unlike the experimental sciences where strict physical and technical factors limit the ability to measure a phenomenon, in all the social sciences there are technical AND social limitations. Consider the Census. While there are all kinds of technical limitations to the Census, e.g. does it ask a question in such a way so as to elicit a meaningful answer, there are also social limitations. In continental Europe, for example, the Census of Population is not very reliable because of traditional suspicion of government, i.e. many, many people simply do not answer or will even lie. Similarly, different companies use different accounting methods and when they answer the Census of Business they do not necessarily answer in the same way.