Final answer:
Systematic study is the process described, which includes the methodical approach of the scientific method to gather and analyze data under controlled conditions to support or rebut hypotheses and theories.
Step-by-step explanation:
The activity that involves looking at relationships, attempting to attribute causes and effects, and basing conclusions on scientific evidence—that is, data gathered under controlled conditions and measured and interpreted in a rigorous manner—is known as systematic study. This is a methodical approach to research, which includes the steps of observing natural phenomena, formulating hypotheses, designing and performing controlled experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and integrating experimental results to support or refute the initial hypotheses. In sociological research, this complex process ensures that data and results are reliable, valid, and objective.
Systematic study is crucial because it provides a structured way of understanding the world, eliminating bias as much as possible, and creating knowledge that has predictive power and can be generalized to other situations. Sociologists and scientists across various fields use the scientific method to explore nature and society, formulate theories, and communicate their findings effectively.