What characterizes a positive statement in economics?

A positive statement in economics is characterized as an objective claim that can be tested and validated with factual evidence. This type of statement describes the world as it is, rather than making suggestions or expressing opinions about how the world ought to be.

For instance, a positive statement might assert that "an increase in consumer income will lead to an increase in the demand for luxury goods." This statement can be tested using data and empirical analysis to see whether the correlation holds true in practice.

On the other hand, statements based on subjective opinions or value judgments, forecasts based on assumptions, or normative statements about what should happen do not fit the definition of positive economics. Such statements reflect personal beliefs or predictions that cannot be empirically tested in the same way, and therefore do not align with the characteristics of positive statements.