Is there any way to determine whether or not the use of shadows and highlights in a picture is done correctly?

Can it somehow be calculated or determined scientifically?

Or is it in the end the subjective perception that decides whether or not it is done right?

Even when done precisely, it may not look right... Plus, by influencing the "unnatural", it may enhance the image meaning /intent.

There is the descriptive geometry way and the dramatic "baroque" chiaroscuro.

The first can give you a perfect sence on right shape of the cast shadows, however you might as well use a 3D model and raytracing for a good rendering.
The latter uses light as a weapon of choice to bring the focus of the viewer to certain areas and add a framing to the shapes by the halftones.

Both can be right.

Okay, thank you for your answers.

I come from the 3D engineering world. Where correct shadows are easy. And the scientific way is natural. However for much 2D illustration work I've had to learn that if it looks right, it is right. And don't try to make it perfect. I've learnt that from the illustrators I've worked with. Who think us 3D engineers fiddle with small details too much. And moving a curve 0,001 mm is madness. Just sayin'.