Final answer:
The objective choice among the options given is 'c) Data', as data consists of measurable and verifiable information. Facts are established by empirical research and observation and are true under specific conditions. Differentiating between subjective opinions, theories, facts, and data is vital for scientific and scholarly assessments.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question, 'Which of the following is objective: a) Opinion b) Theory c) Data d) Fact?', pertains to understanding the difference between subjective and objective information. The objective option among the ones listed is 'c) Data'. Data are quantifiable information that can be measured and verified independently. Unlike data, opinions are personal and subjective; theories are systematic ideas intended to explain phenomena and are subject to testing and revision; facts are observations accepted as true but can be a result of interpretation of data.
Facts are established through empirical research and observation and are true under specific conditions of the observation. This concept is important in differentiating what constitutes factual information in scientific and scholarly contexts.
When applying these principles to other questions listed within the context, 'theory' in the 'theory of evolution' is best replaced by a) fact if overwhelmingly supported by objective evidence, though b) hypothesis might be more appropriate if one is discussing the initial stages of forming the theory. A 'hypothesis' is closest in meaning to d) suggestion, which is an informed guess subject to testing. Lastly, normative political science questions can be answered with b) data and analysis, which utilize logic and reasoning grounded in objective assessment.