Economics is often described as a science because it

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks why Economics is called a "science." It is a social science, so the reason must relate to its method, not to lab work.

Step 2: Explain the concept A subject counts as a science when it uses the scientific method:

• Observing facts and events
• Forming hypotheses
• Testing them with data
• Drawing conclusions or theories (e.g., the law of demand)

Economics follows this process to explain how people, firms and governments behave. It is a social science because it studies human behaviour, which cannot be controlled like materials in a laboratory.

Step 3: Evaluate each option

• A. Laboratory experiments: Wrong. Economics doesn't rely on labs. That is typical of natural sciences such as Physics and Chemistry.
• B. Uses scientific methods to explain observed phenomena: Correct. Economists observe, collect data, form hypotheses, test them and build theories.
• C. Controlled experiments: Wrong. Human behaviour and economies can't be fully controlled, so this is not how Economics works.
• D. Accurate prediction of human beings: Wrong. Human behaviour is unpredictable, and economic forecasts are never perfectly accurate.

Step 4: Answer

Exam tip: For "why is Economics a science?" questions, look for the option mentioning scientific method, observation, hypotheses or data. Reject options with laboratory, controlled experiments or accurate prediction. Those describe natural sciences or claim too much.