Chapter 6: Social Science Study Material
Human Life and Human-Society Relations
• Humans, as agents of development, shape culture, values, and lifestyles
through social interaction.
• Human and societal well-being is crucial in national development, involving
economic, political, and social aspects.
Social Ethics and Human Philosophy
• Social ethics guide human behavior within society.
• Human philosophy emphasizes balanced development (physical and spiritual)
for human well-being.
Chapter 7: Fundamental Concepts in Social Science
Social Institutions
• Systems of status, roles, and norms that fulfill social needs (e.g., economy,
education, religion).
Social Structure
• Patterns of social interaction that shape culture and society.
Culture
• Includes knowledge, beliefs, arts, laws, and customs.
Social Values
• Society’s concept of what is considered good or bad, important or unimportant.
Social Interaction
• The process of exchanging meaning between individuals or groups within
society.
Chapter 8: Social Science Methodology
Philosophy of Social Science Research
• Social science research is scientific and systematic, aiming to produce objective
and unbiased knowledge.
• Qualitative Approach: Uses ethnographic and case study methods to deeply
understand social phenomena.
• Quantitative Approach: Uses experimental and survey methods to measure and
analyze data statistically.
• Research Ethics: Emphasizes integrity, honesty, and respect for privacy, culture,
and the research environment.
Chapter 9: Disciplines in Social Science
Major Disciplines
• Sociology: Studies human relationships and groups in society.
• Anthropology: Focuses on culture and primitive societies.
• Psychology: Examines mental processes and individual behavior.
• Economics: Studies production, distribution, and resource consumption.
• Political Science: Examines power, governance, and political processes.
Similarities and Differences
• Each discipline emphasizes different aspects of human behavior but shares a
common focus on social interaction and society.
Additional Topics from Lecturer’s Instructions
Epistemology
• The study of the origins, nature, and limitations of knowledge.
• In social science, it explores how knowledge is acquired (through senses,
reason, or revelation).
Key Concepts
• Concepts: Abstract ideas used to understand social phenomena (e.g., social
institutions, culture, values).
• Ibn Khaldun: Considered the father of sociology and anthropology. His work
Muqaddimah discusses human nature, society, and factors influencing the rise
and fall of civilizations.
• Importance in Research: Research generates new knowledge, solves social
problems, and shapes policies.
• Subjectivity vs. Objectivity: While social science involves perspectives,
maintaining objectivity ensures credibility.
• Science Ethics: Encompasses researcher integrity, responsibility, and protection
of subjects.
Philosophical Approaches
Approach Description
Positivism Uses the scientific method to obtain objective knowledge.
Post-
Recognizes subjectivity and the role of social context in research.
Positivism
Pragmatism Focuses on the practical application of knowledge.
Rationalism Emphasizes reason and logical deduction in acquiring knowledge.
Argues that knowledge is built through social interaction and
Constructivism
experience.
Empiricism Knowledge is obtained through experience and sensory observation.
Reasoning Methods
• Deductive Reasoning: General to specific (e.g., "All humans die. Ali is human.
Therefore, Ali will die.")
• Inductive Reasoning: Specific to general (e.g., "Several birds fly, so all birds
must fly.")
Comprehensive Overview
Social and Cultural Phenomena
• Social sciences study humans, culture, and human-made products.
• Modernization in Europe (18th century) led to social changes and challenges.
• Historical and contemporary events influence human life and shape social
realities.
Émile Durkheim’s Approach (1858-1917)
• Focused on how societies maintain stability.
• Used scientific observation to study social facts.
• Concept of "Anomie": Social instability due to collapsed norms (e.g., economic
crises, revolutions).
Ontology: Structure and Agency
Paradigm View on Reality Knowledge Approach Methodology
Positivism Single reality Measurable knowledge Quantitative
Constructivism Multiple realities Knowledge is interpreted Qualitative
Pragmatism Changing reality Uses best tools available Mixed methods
Final Conclusion
• Social science is a broad field encompassing various disciplines and approaches
to understanding human behavior and society.
• Social science research requires a deep understanding of epistemology, ethics,
and appropriate research methodologies.
• Scholars such as Ibn Khaldun, Comte, Marx, Durkheim, and Weber have
significantly contributed to the development of social science theories and
methodologies.
• Mastering these concepts ensures a strong foundation in social science and a
comprehensive understanding necessary for excelling in exams.
