Title: Types of Evidence. Social scientists have to use evidence… | by Phil Howard | Medium
Headings: Types of Evidence
Types of Evidence
1. Anecdotal Evidence
2. Testimonial Evidence
3. Statistical Evidence
4. Analogical Evidence

Content: Anecdotal Evidence
a. Provides weak support for an argument
b. Acts as a powerful counterexample for dismissing an argument
c. Describes one, or a few best instances all of the same type, general nature, or structure
An anecdote is a spec i fic example, usually grounded in personal, secondary, or incomplete evidence. Obviously an anecdote cannot prove a general statement, so avoid treating a single case as proving a general point. An anecdote is especially unconvincing when it is a broad example being used to support or oppose a very narrow claim. And a single anecdote or counterexample is alone sufficient to disprove a general statement. A well-chosen anecdote, however, can be a counter-example that demonstrates how a claim must be modified or qualified. Anecdotal evidence often appears in journalism, or in short essays like book reviews or public scholarship where a writer wants to undermine someone else’s claim. 2. Testimonial Evidence
a. Provides moderately strong or supportive evidence
b. References an established or trustworthy authority
c. Can render rich empirical evidence about specific phenomena
In social science research, we are supposed to use well-established or credible citations and sources. The testimony of credible experts — or human subjects — can strengthen an argument. Still, researchers must almost always say why the reader should especially consider that person’s observations, ideas, and perspectives valuable.