In studying cybersecurity as a social science, we must always adhere to the scientific principles of relativism, objectivity, parsimony, ethical neutrality, and determinism. Relativism refers to the interrelatedness of all things: technology drives changes in social systems, and current social systems drive changes in technology. When conducting research, one must conduct themselves with objectivity, no allowing their personal biases to color their conclusions. As topics relating to cybersecurity frequently are hot button issues, it is especially important to maintain objectivity. Parsimony is the belief that a good scientific theory should be as simple, (ie. use as few variables) as possible. Personally, I think it is fraught to attempt to explain, for instance, all of crime using a single, simplistic theory due to the sheer complexity of human beings and consequently the social systems we create. Empiricism is the scientific principle which states that knowledge can only come from observation and measurement. Like objectivity, empiricism means that as researchers, we should not rely on opinion or belief to draw conclusions. Determinism states that all outcomes are influenced or caused by preceding events. This is similar to relativism, although in relativism there is not necessarily a direct line of cause and effect. Finally, ethical neutrality refers to standards researchers are held to in their treatment of their subjects.