Contemporary Issues Flashcards

What is a Social Problem?

a social problem is a condition or issue within a society that has negative impact on individuals, groups, or the community as a whole. These problems typically violate norms, values, or expectations and often require collective efforts to address

What are the Characteristics of Social Problem?

They are characterized by:

Harm or Disruption

Socially Defines

Structural Roots

Collective Response

Complexity

Harm or Disruption

They cause harm, suffering, or disruption that can be physical, emotional, economic, or social

Socially Defined

what is considered a social problem varies across cultures and over time, as society collectively defines which issues are problematic

Structural Roots

Many have systematic causes, often rooted in inequality, discrimination, or disparities in resources.

Collective Response

addressing them requires a collective response involving government, organizations, and individuals

Complexity

they are typically complex and multifaced, with interconnected causes and consequences

When does a problem become "social"?

A problem becomes "social" when it has a direct or indirect impact on society, individuals, or groups. This is due to its connection to the larger social fabric and its consequences for the well-being of people and communities

Several key factors contribute to making a problem social

Impact on Society

Norms and Values

Interconnectedness

Collective Recognition

Policy and Intervention

Inequality and Disparities

Subjectivity

Public Concern

Impact on Society

Social problems affect not just isolated individuals but have broader implications for society as a whole. These problems can disrupt social harmony, hinder progress, and require collective action to address.

Norms and Values

Social problems often involve behaviors, conditions, or situations that deviate from established societal norms, values, or expectations. These deviations are seen as problematic because they challenge the shared beliefs and standards of a community.

Interconnectedness

Social problems are seldom isolated issues. They tend to be interconnected with other problems, and addressing one issue may involve addressing related issues as well. For example, poverty can be linked to educational disparities, healthcare access, and crime rates.

Collective Recognition

Social problems gain recognition as such when society collectively acknowledges their existence and their negative consequences. Public awareness, discourse, and debate play a crucial role in identifying and addressing social problems.

Policy and Intervention

Social problems often lead to the development of policies, laws, and interventions designed to mitigate their effects or address their root causes. Governments, organizations, and communities may take action to respond to these issues.

Inequality and Disparities

Many social problems are closely tied to inequality and disparities in resources, opportunities, or treatment. These inequalities can lead to adverse outcomes for marginalized or disadvantaged groups.

Subjectivity

What constitutes a social problem can be subjective and influenced by cultural, historical, and societal factors. Different societies and time periods may perceive and prioritize certain issues differently

Public Concern

Social problems are typically issues that elicit concern, empathy, or outrage from the public. They often spark activism, advocacy, and efforts to bring about change.

What are some contemporary social issues in the Philippines?

Economic Inequality and Poverty.

Corruption

Human Rights Concerns

Education Access and Gaps

Environmental Issues

Migration

Indigenous Peoples' Rights

Health, Healthcare Access, and the Pandemic

Gender-Based Violence

Concerns over the Internet and social media, such as online harassment and censorship