Unit 1: Social Science



  • Social Science

  • a branch of science devoted to the study of societies and the relationships among members 

  • Differences between anthropology, sociology and psychology 

  • Anthropology: focuses on the origins, behaviour, and cultural development of people. Anthropologists often life among cultures to gain insight into physical, social, and cultural aspects.

  • Sociology: examines the actions and interactions within societies, including aspects such as criminology, gender studies, and social classes.

  • Psychology: Studies the human mind, behaviour, emotions, and mental health, aiming to understand experiences, thoughts, learning and development.


  • Research methods/observations

  • Unstructured Observation: No specific plan; observations are made freely.

  • Participant Observation: Researcher becomes part form the group being studied. 

  • Structural Observation: Observation follows predetermined format structure.


  • Dependent vs. independent variables

  • Independent Variable: Causes change; not influenced by other variables.

  • Dependent Variable: Changes in response to the independent variable 


  • Quantitative vs. Qualitative data

  • Quantitative Data: Measurable, numerical (e.g., averages, counts).

  • Qualitative Data: Descriptive, based on observation (e.g., opinions, feelings).


  • Primary vs. secondary sources

  • Primary Sources: Original records (e.g., diaries, artifacts, firsthand accounts).

  • Secondary Sources: Interpretations or analyses based on primary sources (e.g., textbooks, reviews).


  • Ethical guidelines for social science research

  • Key Principles:

-  Do no harm.

- Ensure accuracy and honesty.

- Respect privacy and dignity.

- Obtain informed approval. 

- Debrief participants about the study’s nature.


  • Objective vs. subjective

  • Objective: Based on facts, unchangeable, non-arguable.

  • Subjective: Based on opinions, changeable, arguable.