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What's the equivalent of physics constants for social studies? (reddthat.com)

submitted 9 months ago* (last edited 9 months ago) by [email protected] to c/askscience

12 comments fedilink hide all child comments

In physics, it's common to develop a formula and then stick a constant to explain the unknown. For example, Newton's theory of gravity uses the gravitational constant G on the formula F = G * m_1 * m_2 / r^2, later on Einstein gave a more accurate explanation with the theory of relativity which does not rely on a constant E = m * c^2. Constants provide a good enough explanation of the laws of physics that's useful for centuries.

I was wondering what's the equivalent in social studies? How do researchers deal with the uncertainty of human behaviour?

Edit: Comments made me remember how much I don't understand the theory of relativity, terrible example, sorry for the confusion. I need to rephrase the question but I don't know how.

I am looking for "glue" concepts, things that help connect observations with theory, aka if I calculate m_1 * m_2 / r^2 the result is slightly off but if I account for G, an empirical constant derived from observation, then everything makes sense for the observable universe.

Also, as someone said, I am referring to social studies.

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[–] surewhynotlem 8 points 9 months ago (1 children)

Look, Mr Hari Seldon, you're going to need to work these out on your own.

[–] [email protected] 3 points 9 months ago (1 children)

TIL https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hari_Seldon

Seldon develops psychohistory, an algorithmic science that allows him to predict the future in probabilistic terms. On the basis of his psychohistory he is able to predict the eventual fall of the Galactic Empire and to develop a means to shorten the millennia of chaos to follow. The significance of his discoveries lies behind his nickname "Raven" Seldon.

[–] surewhynotlem 4 points 9 months ago

TIL??

Oh man, you are lucky. You have the chance to read the Foundation series for the first time. I'm kinda jealous and highly recommend it.