Final answer:
Scientific studies differ from other studies in that they are based on empirical evidence and employ a rigorous methodological approach involving experimentation, control groups, and adaptability in research. They aim to provide replicable and objective findings that advance scientific knowledge.
Step-by-step explanation:
Victor explains that scientific studies are distinct from other types of studies because they are rooted in empirical evidence, which is derived from direct experience, scientifically gathered data, and objective observations. Unlike other methods of inquiry, scientific studies employ rigorous methodologies, like experimentation, where researchers manipulate variables and use control groups to isolate the effects of treatments, as exemplified by Jonas Salk's experimental trial of the polio vaccine in 1954. Such scientific reasoning also extends beyond linear procedures, often requiring the scientists to adapt their approaches and consider new scientific questions that emerge during the research process.
The goal of scientists is to enhance our understanding of the world through empirical knowledge. This is distinct from other fields that might rely on intuition or personal experience, as the claims made in scientific research must be supported by replicable evidence that holds irrespective of the observer. Furthermore, scientific sociological studies are keen to define their variables clearly, observing the relationships between them and ensuring their research aligns with established theories, thus contributing to the advancement of scientific knowledge.