Title: What is the role of anecdotal evidence in research of complex social systems?
Headings: What is the role of anecdotal evidence in research of complex social systems?
What is the role of anecdotal evidence in research of complex social systems?
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Content: I'm simplifying, of course, but it's only an example to show the importance of anecdotes as "data." Cite
2 Recommendations
27th Jul, 2012
Loraine J Bacchus
London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
Annecodotal or experiential evidence, based on professional insight, understanding, skill and expertise that is accumulated over many years can provide valuable information in new emerging areas of research where there is little published data (e.g. development of interventions to address partner violence in health care settings). This intuitive or tacit knowledge has, for example, helped guide the development of training programmes. It still helps in understanding 'what works/doesn't work' in complex interventions. Cite
3 Recommendations
30th Jul, 2012
Helen Gilburt
King's College London
One of the risks of anecdotal evidence is that it can be a bit mythological, or people can all observe/experience something and either jump to the same conclusion or coming from a certain philosophical or professional standpoint derive a certain explanation. In the case of lobotomy, there was loads of anecdotal evidence it worked (it gave the medical profession a wonder cure) but actually it was very harmful. Anecdotal evidence can be useful to sensitise you to data, and as a basis to test theory. However also you need to mindful of the biases involved which have led this to become evidence. I like to use anecdotal evidence in qual, not to further justify the theory but to try and disprove this evidence/theory (as in the natural sciences) and to examine the underlying assumptions and conditions by which this has become evidence. Cite
3 Recommendations
31st Jul, 2012
David Walker
The University of Sydney
Thank you all for your comments.