Question

Q: What is the difference between a normative approach and a descriptive approach? What is the difference between saying, “Do Americans believe that bribery is wrong” and “Is bribery wrong?”
Q: Why is the naturalistic fallacy a fallacy?

Answer 1

As per rules and time constraint, I am answering first question. Kindly ask other question separately. Thank you.

Ans) Normative economics is based on opinions and values. It is narrow and pass judgements. It asks 'what is ought to be'. It provides solutions based on values. It is subjective in nature and the statements cannot be tested.

Positive economics is based on facts and data. It is descriptive in nature, hence also called as descriptive approach. It explains the cause and effect relationship. It does not pass judgement and asks question 'what is'. Here the statements can be tested.

Do Americans believe that bribery is wrong ÷ is a positive statement as it asks a question 'what is'. It is not passing any judgment and is relying on facts and data. This statement can be tested by conducting surveys and we can get the figures that what percentage of people think this statement to be true.

Is bribery wrong÷ is a normative statement as it is asking question based on values. It is based upon morals. And its answer depends upon one's perception of right and wrong.