The Possibility of a Contracting Science
Abstract
This thesis investigates the possibility of the contracting field of study becoming a contracting science. The paper begins with background material concerning the different problems and difficulties currently encountered in contracting research. A case is made that a more systematic and rigorous (or scientific) approach is needed for gaining insight into contracting phenomena. An examination of the nature, the characteristics, and the requirements of science is conducted. Through this examination, the major requirements of; the possession of a distinct subject matter, the description and classification of the subject matter, the identification of underlying uniformities and regularities of the phenomena, and the use of the scientific method were identified. The field of contracting was then evaluated against these requirements. The writer concludes that the field of contracting can and will evolve into a science; however, a change in beliefs and attitudes must first occur.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1986
- Accession Number
- ADA177787
Entities
People
- Steven A. Park
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School