What are Social Sciences?
The term ‘Social Science’ has various definitions and covers an extremely wide variety of subjects. A short definition is — The scholarly study of human society and social relationships. A longer definition is — Social Sciences are the key to the understanding of many societal issues such as the balance between economic growth and impact on the environment. Social sciences examine what it means to be a social being, ranging from the intricacies of human behavior and brain functions to large-scale social movements, demographics, economics, and politics.
Europe is the perfect place to study Social Sciences and has a long history with its subjects. Social sciences are a vital part of the culture and touch on all areas of life. Many European universities specialize in the social sciences. Examples of such universities are the London School of Economics and Political Science, Sciences Po (Paris), the University of Amsterdam, the University of Copenhagen, etc.
Major Subjects of Social Sciences
The major social sciences are Anthropology, Archaeology, Economics, Geography, History, Law, Linguistics, Politics, Psychology, and Sociology.
Anthropology — This is known as the Science of Humanity. Anthropology covers a variety of topics like human behavior, cultural relations, and how the evolution of humanity influences society’s structure. It’s both scientific and humanistic and is suited for anyone looking to study both these subjects. And while focusing on history, there is also a chance to apply it in modern contexts also.
Archaeology — Many people may think archaeologists are like Indiana Jones but not everyone is like that. But the subject is interesting to those who want to study the various mysteries of the past. Archaeology relies much more on the material evidence left behind by cultures. This involves excavation work, analysis, and survey. For example, an archeologist can spend his or her entire life studying how the Pyramids, Vikings, Incas, Romans, etc.
Economics — This is about money and finance. Economics looks at the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. It also looks at how the economic systems of the world work and what steps governments must take to avoid poverty and recession, and keep people meaningfully employed. This knowledge can be applied both theoretically and practically and is well-suited for anyone interested in the current economic world. Subjects like Law or Economics are also well suited for excellent career goals.
Geography — This is the study of the physical features of the earth, atmosphere, and human activity as it affects and is affected by these. It also studies the distribution of populations and resources, political, and economic activities. Geographers explore the physical properties of the Earth’s surface, the human societies living on them, and their culture interacting with the natural environment. Geography seeks to understand where things are found, why they are there, and how they develop and change over time. At higher levels, students can also specialize in branches like oceanology or environmental management.
History — This is a broad subject encompassing large areas and time periods of the world. History is the study of change over time and covers all aspects of human society. Political, social, economic, intellectual, scientific, religious technological, medical, cultural, and military developments are all part of history. Professional historians specialize in a particular aspect of history, a specific time period, a certain approach to history, or a specific geographic region.
Law — This will give you the knowledge and opportunity to look at various legal systems within a country and internationally and to focus on specific areas like a contract, international, labor, or criminal law. A study in law is useful if you intend to take it as a career, although it is possible to study it for academic reasons also.
Linguistics — This is the study of language and looks at its form, context, or meaning. Rather than learning to speak any particular language, linguistics is more about how language itself works. Within linguistics, there are aspects like looking at grammar, language acquisition, or the evolution of various languages. There are hundreds of languages and dialects of each that can be studied in depth if you want to pursue a career in linguistics.
Political Science — Political science is a fascinating subject as it impacts practically everyone. It focuses on the theory and practice of governments and politics at the local, state, national, and international levels. The subfields of political science are — Political Theory, Comparative Politics, and International Relations. A degree in political science is suited for those who are aiming for a career in politics or just studying it from an academic level.
Psychology — This involves the study of social behavior and neurobiological processes of both theoretical and experimental types. Students of psychology can specialize in areas like child psychology, interpersonal relationships, or social psychology. Concepts of psychology are also used for solving crimes and studying why humans commit crimes.
Sociology — This is the study of society, both on the individual and structural level. This covers topics like class, religion, and social mobility. Some sociologists work solely for theoretical purposes, while others use their knowledge and findings for policies or welfare.
Why Study Social Sciences?
According to experts, social sciences help students in gaining analytical and reasoning skills and also prepare them for multifaceted workplace projects. Social sciences’ scope and significance never lose relevance over the years. Social science plays an integral part in global issues, and for people who wish to do something for humanity, this is an ideal career choice.
Students who study social sciences acquire a highly versatile skill set that will make them superior employees in the workplace. This is because they develop — Strong communication skills, Superior Emotional Intelligence, Research and Presentation Skills, Understanding and Accepting Change, the Ability to Participate in Debates, etc.
Some Famous Quotes
Science is morally neutral, but social science shows us that some moral codes are better than others — Mario Bunge
Man, the molecule of society, is the subject of social science — Henry Charles Carey
Medicine is a social science, and politics is nothing more than medicine on a grand scale — Rudolf Virchow
My folks are economists and have taught economics and social science so I grew up with those kind of conversations around the dinner table — Seth Gordon
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