The best that can be done is to compare the predictions of an economic theory or model with statistical or other 'empirical' evidence. Empirical evidence is derived from direct observation or experimentation, not theory or deduction. As experimentation is not really possible in economics, empirical evidence is limited to observation. A bridge stands or falls depending upon the laws of physics which are, at least on our plane of existence, constant and unchanging. Economic theories, however, stand or fall depending upon the changing historical, cultural and technologic conditions of society.
Truth is therefore relative rather than absolute.
Third , the inherent limitations of the social sciences in general, highlights the fact that 'science' is more than just experimental science, i.e. use of the experimental method. Science, in general, means an organized and systematized body of knowledge. How knowledge is collected, organized and systematized varies between the natural and engineering sciences, the social sciences and humanities, and the arts. Each way of 'knowing', i.e. ways of accumulating knowledge, varies between these three primary forms of knowledge in contemporary society. Induction involves reasoning from the particular to the whole.