ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the status of economics as a social science. It explores how economics uses scientific method as a non-experimental science, in particular by calling on mathematics and statistical analysis. Economics is not primarily a laboratory science. This issue is common across the social sciences, where hypotheses and theories are put to the test through a range of approaches: conducting surveys, observing behaviour or analysing data. In some cases, economics is seen as part of the Business or Management School, sitting alongside departments of business, management, management science, accounting or finance. The combination can work well for many students, as economists need mathematical skills, but mathematicians benefit from having to present ideas in verbal style, as they must do if they are to be successful in economics.
