normative science

Normative science refers to a branch of science concerned with establishing standards or norms, often in areas like ethics, policy, or social behavior. Rather than just describing how things are (like many empirical sciences do), normative science seeks to address how things should be. It involves creating principles or guidelines that suggest ideal behaviors or outcomes based on values, theories, or observations. For example, in environmental science, normative principles might advocate for sustainable practices based on the belief that protecting the planet is a moral obligation. It helps shape decisions and actions in society toward desirable goals.