Social Sciences in the Real World

Social Science

• Study of society and human behavior, and how people impact the world.

• Focuses on understanding people, institutions, and applying knowledge to create solutions.

8 Fields of Social Science & Careers

• Economics

• Anthropology

• Archaeology

• History

• Geography

• Sociology

• Political Science

• Psychology

Economics

• Studies allocation of scarce resources, production, distribution, consumption.

• Careers: Economist, Financial Analyst, Bank Officer.

Anthropology

• Studies cultures (past & present), solves human problems.

• Methods: Direct, Indirect, Participant Observation.

• Careers: Anthropologist, Cultural Researcher.

Archaeology

• Studies past civilizations via artifacts (fossils, tools, pottery).

• Can also study present-day cultures.

History

• Studies past events to understand causes, effects, and lessons.

• Careers: Law, Teaching, Researcher, Biographer.

Geography

• Studies people-environment interaction.

• Branches: Physical Geography, Human Geography.

• Themes: Location, Place, Human-Environment Interaction, Movement, Regions.

• Careers: Cartographer, Urban Geographer, Researcher.

Sociology

• Studies human behavior in groups and social structures.

Political Science

• Studies government forms, power, politics, ideology, and effects on society.

• Careers: Researcher, Lawyer, Politician.

Psychology

• Studies the mind-body relationship and human thought.

• Careers: Guidance Counselor, Life Coach, Psychologist.

How Social Science Addresses Social Concerns

1. Understanding Root Causes

2. Using Research & Data

3. Informing Public Policy

4. Promoting Social Justice

5. Improving Community Programs

6. Planning Better Cities

7. Educating the Public

8. Responding to Global Issues

Sociological Theories & Approaches

1. Structural Functionalism

2. Rational Choice Theory

3. Routine Activity Theory

Structural Functionalism

• Society as a system where parts work together for stability.

• Social problems arise naturally but can lead to positive adaptation.

Rational Choice Theory

People make decisions based on outcomes they value most.

Routine Activity Theory

Crime occurs when there's opportunity, a valuable target, and lack of protection.

Multidisciplinary

Uses multiple disciplines side by side for broader solutions.

Interdisciplinary

Integrates methods and insights from multiple disciplines for deeper understanding.