The second issue, which is related to the first one is about the positive theorists’ belief that science is value-free or positive and non-science is value-laden or normative (Sterling, 1990).
Sterling further points out that most scientific practices or studies are normative in the sense that they attempt to find out whether the practices meet standards, which are almost invariably theory dependent. Scientific theories explain and predict the natural phenomena, but one of the function of a theory of a discipline is to provide guidelines to the practitioners of that discipline and practitioners are sometimes studied to see if they are properly following the dictates of the appropriate theory. Far from such studies being positive, those who are found to violate the dictates of the theory may be subject to sanctions. Others who are found to be ignorant of the appropriate theory may be required to remedy their deficiency by further or ‘continuing’ education. Thus, the claim that a theory should be a positive reflection of practice instead of a normative guide for practice show a profound misunde