Numbers tend to give a feeling of exactness and rightness (if I can say that), but as I think Hawkins states, you can just choose one model and work out all the predictions according to that particular model (as opposed to other equally valid models)... However, I feel that there will always be a point in which we reach that stops us, 'cause we do not have the capacity to continue...case in point computer technology. In an empirical only framework, our theories and ideas are only based on the next evolution of ideas and the technology that enables us to work out those ideas... How do we make advances in new ways of thinking? One way is being creative and being able to think outside of the box... I think subjectivity can give us a way to do that, but it has to go along with empirical positivism...in tandem...
Also, what is objectivity? How do you reduce emotional states and affective factors for instance to specific data? And once you do reduce it to facts and figures, how do you stop from turning that data into something that disadvantages the individual? I know that within positivism, there is the debate between individual vs. society, but looking at the outcome and usability of data, aren't there many cases where descriptive analysis and holistic expressions may be more useful than just data alone? I guess it depends on what the end user is needing the research to do. Action research on a very specific level may cry out for specific descriptions of the situation at hand, whereas, bigger studies on a national or even world level may need general trends, as the problem as stated in the research affects more people in greater variety. This is possibly where number crunching can be very effective.
At the moment, I see quantitative data sitting along side qualitative observation...And the benefit that comes from both is reflected in the end user...
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