Introduction to Social Science

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Questions and Answers

How does social science differ from natural science in terms of its primary focus?

Social science focuses on the study of society and human behavior, while natural science studies the physical world.

Explain how archaeology contributes to our understanding of human history.

Archaeology studies human history by excavating sites and analyzing artifacts which provides insight into past cultures and societies.

How might a human geographer study the impact of urbanization on local ecosystems?

A human geographer might study deforestation, pollution levels, and changes in biodiversity resulting from urban sprawl.

In what ways do political scientists analyze systems of governance?

Political scientists analyze structures like democracies, elections, and international relations to understand how power is distributed and decisions are made. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the differences between quantitative and qualitative methods in social science research.

Quantitative methods use numerical data and statistical analysis, while qualitative methods explore meaning and experiences using interviews and observations. Signup and view all the answers

What are some ethical considerations that researchers must keep in mind when conducting social science research?

Researchers must protect participants' rights and well-being, including obtaining informed consent, ensuring confidentiality, and avoiding harm. Signup and view all the answers

How does the theoretical perspective of functionalism view society?

Functionalism views society as a system of interconnected parts working together to maintain stability. Signup and view all the answers

Explain how an economist might use statistical modeling to predict consumer spending during a recession.

Economists use statistical modeling to analyze historical consumer spending data and economic indicators to forecast future spending patterns. Signup and view all the answers

How does conflict theory explain social phenomena, and what are its primary areas of focus?

Conflict theory explains social phenomena as a result of social inequalities and power struggles, focusing primarily on issues such as class, race, and gender. Signup and view all the answers

Explain how symbolic interactionism contributes to our understanding of society, and provide an example of how it can be applied in a real-world scenario.

Symbolic interactionism emphasizes that individuals create meaning through interactions and the use of symbols. For instance, the meaning of a 'thumbs up' gesture can vary across cultures, affecting communication. Signup and view all the answers

In what ways can rational choice theory be used to model human behavior, and what are its key assumptions about individual decision-making?

Rational choice theory models behavior by assuming individuals make decisions based on rational calculations and a cost-benefit analysis, aiming to maximize their own interests. Signup and view all the answers

How does social stratification impact individuals and groups within a society, and what factors typically contribute to its formation?

Social stratification creates a hierarchical arrangement impacting access to resources and opportunities, often based on wealth, status, and power. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the role of social institutions in maintaining social order, and give two examples of how they influence individual behavior.

Social institutions are established patterns of behavior and organization that maintain social order. For example, family structures influence socialization, and education systems impact skill development and knowledge acquisition. Signup and view all the answers

How does globalization affect societies, and what are some of the key consequences of increasing interconnectedness across borders?

Globalization increases the interconnectedness of societies through the flow of goods, information, and people, leading to cultural exchange, economic integration, and the spread of ideas, but can also create challenges like cultural homogenization and economic inequality. Signup and view all the answers

Explain how social science research contributes to the development of public policy, and provide an example of its impact on addressing a specific social issue.

Social science research informs public policy by providing evidence-based insights for decision-making. For example, studies on poverty can lead to targeted interventions and policy changes to reduce inequality. Signup and view all the answers

What are the implications of interdisciplinary research for addressing complex social problems, and why is it becoming increasingly common in social science?

Interdisciplinary research addresses complex social problems from multiple perspectives, providing a more comprehensive understanding and effective solutions. It is becoming more common due to the recognition that many social issues are multifaceted and require insights from various disciplines. Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Functionalism

Emphasizes maintaining structure and order in society.

Conflict Theory

Focuses on power imbalances and social stratification.