What does it mean to say that research is probabilistic?

Saying that research is probabilistic means that it acknowledges the inherent variability and uncertainty in human behavior and the natural world. When conclusions are described as probabilistic, it indicates that they are drawn from samples of data and are intended to discuss the likelihood or probability of certain outcomes occurring in a broader context.

In this framework, conclusions are based on statistical analyses, which allow researchers to make generalizations about a population based on a sample, recognizing that while the findings provide insights, they are not absolute. Instead, they help identify patterns or trends that are likely to hold true for a certain proportion of cases observed. This concept underlines the importance of context and the understanding that other factors may influence outcomes beyond what the research can capture.

Thus, characterizing research as probabilistic emphasizes a nuanced understanding of findings and their applications, rather than implying definitive truths or relying solely on individual experiences.