1. Evidence-based policy and practice aims to objectively assess the quality of social research evidence to inform decisions. However, some argue that claiming evidence can be isolated from political influences and that it should be privileged in policymaking are "brave claims". 2. All observation is theory-laden, so the quest for objective truths is questionable. Quality assessment depends on judgments and values, not just methods. 3. Evidence-based practice aims to minimize gaps between research evidence and practice/policy to improve outcomes. However, drawing on research findings in practice is still limited. Assessing alternative practices requires consideration of clients' values and informed consent.