Analytical sociology is a branch of sociology that uses mathematical and statistical tools to analyze social phenomena. Synonyms for analytical sociology include quantitative sociology, mathematical sociology, and computational sociology. All of these terms describe the systematic study of social phenomena using numerical data, with a focus on understanding the underlying mechanisms that produce social outcomes. The goal of analytical sociology is to develop theories and models that can explain and predict social behavior, using a range of statistical methods and models. Through this approach, social scientists can gain a deeper understanding of social processes and structures, and make informed policy recommendations based on empirical evidence.