What aspect makes quantitative data more scientific?

Quantitative data is considered more scientific primarily because it involves the use of numbers and statistics for comparison. This quantification allows researchers to measure variables objectively and analyze them systematically. The numerical representation of data enables researchers to apply statistical methods to test hypotheses, identify patterns, and draw conclusions with a level of precision that qualitative data may not provide.

For instance, in psychological research, a study that uses scales to measure traits (like anxiety or depression) can quantify the severity of these traits across different populations or interventions, leading to more generalizable results. The reliance on statistics also supports the replication of studies, a cornerstone of scientific research, enhancing the validity and reliability of the findings.

In contrast, other aspects such as in-depth interviews or anecdotal evidence focus on subjective experiences and qualitative insights, which do not lend themselves to the same level of objective analysis. These methods may provide rich contextual information but lack the capacity for robust statistical evaluation that quantitative data offers.