Introduction
Social science and social studies are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they actually refer to different subjects. Social studies is a broader field that combines social science and humanities, aiming to promote citizenship and understanding of human society. Social science, on the other hand, specifically focuses on the study of social life and behavior.
Social Science
Social science encompasses various subjects such as geography, history, economics, psychology, political science, and sociology. Economics, for example, is a branch of social science that examines the production and distribution of goods and services. It analyzes factors such as supply and demand, population growth, and their impacts on the economy. History, another branch of social science, explores the events and developments of the human race through archaeological findings.
Political science focuses on the theory and practice of politics, while geography studies the Earth and its inhabitants, shedding light on factors like climate, temperature, and natural phenomena like earthquakes.
Social Studies
Social studies, on the other hand, is primarily centered on human society and is often taught at the primary level in schools. It aims to develop civic knowledge and engagement. Discussions in social studies tend to be opinion-led, as they involve exploring different perspectives and values. In contrast, discussions in social sciences may not always be opinion-based.
It’s important to note that social studies can vary greatly between countries and educational systems. The specific content and focus of social studies may differ based on cultural, historical, and political contexts. This is why social studies should not be mistaken as synonymous with social science.
In summary, social science is a specific branch of study that examines the social aspects of human life, while social studies is a broader field that combines social science and humanities to promote civic knowledge and engagement.
Key Takeaways
1. Social science and social studies are two different subjects. Social studies is the combined studies of social science and humanities, while social science focuses on the study of social life of people or groups.
2. Social science includes subjects like geography, history, economics, psychology, political science, and sociology. It studies topics such as the production and distribution of goods and services, the growth of population, and the study of the planet Earth and its inhabitants.
3. Social studies aims to promote a healthy citizenry and is primarily taught at the primary level in schools. The discussions in social studies are mostly opinion-led, while discussions in social sciences do not necessarily need to be opinion-led. Social studies varies greatly between countries and setups.
