Role Of Social Science In Understanding Ourselves And The Society
Posted on February 27, 2018 June 27, 2018 by Andrew Bicknell
Once considered a subject taught in school, social science is an important area of study today. This multi-disciplinary branch of science encompasses areas like cultural anthropology, political science, psychology and economics. Other areas include geography, law and politics.
Take a look around and you will notice how the world is crumbling. Every day you hear or read instances of natural calamities disrupting the normal lives of people. Terrorist attack, devastating earthquake and forest fires have claimed several innocent lives and all one can do is wonder what triggered these catastrophic incidents in the first place.
Social science can provide you with answers to questions that would otherwise be considered insane to talk about. A popular university in New Zealand teaches subjects like philosophy and political science so students can justify the incidence of ‘tribalism’ that occurred soon after the 9/11 attacks. Ever wondered what happened to isolated colonies of human during a space trip? An expert in social scientist will help you find an answer to this.
Imagine a better future- It is every individual’s dream to live in a happy place in the future. This comes as no surprise considering the fact that medical and technological advances has opened different avenues. Nanotechnology and artificial intelligence will have a tremendous impact on the way humans live.
The need of the hour are social scientists who will analyse these concepts in depth and decipher its use in the future.
Better education- It is every country’s dream to provide the best and innovative form of learning for children. In this process, the interest of the children are neglected and the new learning methodologies are implemented. The truth remains that parents want an enriching experience in school where their kids enjoy the learning process without looking at it like a task.
Social scientists work and talk to children of all age groups and find out what their idea of education is. This way, Cambridge University has successfully managed to come up with effective learning for children.
Makes the world a better place-It is the basic right of every individual to lead a life of dignity. Several social scientists work in collaboration with government institutions, media and UN organisations and influence teachers and strategists.
Predict the future-Notice how every politician talk animatedly about the future? They have visions and dream of an advanced country during their tenor. These predictions are based on theories which make use of explanations that are or little interest to a politician.
Social scientists who predict the growth of the economy or inform which occupation will see the highest growth rate in the next 5 years can expect generous contribution from the government.
Assure democracy- Social scientists come up with fresh and unique perspective on the society. There is study that monitors the advantages of moving from a traditional media to a digital form. Initially, you might be overwhelmed by these reforms but social scientists have questioned the credibility of this change.
Distancing oneself from traditional journalism leads to fewer opportunities for research and providing constructive criticism. The ongoing work by social scientists safeguards transparency of the democracy.