Explain the difference between positive and normative statements

Difference between positive and normative statements

Positive statements focus more on data, facts, and figures and then attempt to describe how the world works.

On the other hand, normative statements focus more on an individual’s perspective and view about ethics, law, and political philosophy and then prescribe how the world should work.

Even though comprehensive data always back both the statements but positive statements provide an objective view of the subject, and normative statements offer a subjective perspective.

Example of a positive statement :

An example of a positive statement can be ” An increase in the minimum wage causes unemployment.”

It will be an example of a positive statement because it states a fact about how the world works.

Example of a normative statement :

On the other hand, an example of a normative statement can be ”The government should increase the minimum wage.”

It will be an example of a normative statement because it doesn’t state a fact about how the world works but rather prescribe how the world should work.

Therefore, It is clearly an example of a normative statement.