WEEK 1-2

Disciplines and ideas in social sciences

NATURE AND FUNCTIONS OF SOCIAL SCIENCES,

NATURAL SCIENCE, AND HUMANITIES

Most Essential Learning Competencies

* Differentiate the nature and functions of Social Science disciplines with the natural sciences and
humanities

Differentiating the nature and functions of social science disciplines from natural sciences and
humanities is crucial for understanding the distinct approaches, methodologies, and goals of each
category of disciplines. Here's a breakdown of these differences:

Nature of Social Sciences:

Focus on Society and Behavior: Social sciences primarily investigate human society,
behavior, and interactions. They seek to understand social phenomena, institutions, and the impact of
human actions on society.

Empirical and Observational: Social sciences often rely on empirical data, observations,
surveys, and experiments to study human behavior and social patterns. They use qualitative and
quantitative research methods.

Interdisciplinary: Many social science disciplines are interdisciplinary in nature. For example,
sociology draws from psychology, economics, and political science to analyze complex social issues.

Contextual and Cultural: Social sciences consider cultural, historical, and societal contexts.
They recognize that behavior and social structures vary across cultures and time periods.

Policy and Applied Research: Social sciences often have a practical aspect, aiming to inform
policy decisions and address real-world issues. They provide insights into social problems and
solutions.

Functions of Social Sciences:

Understanding Society: Social sciences help us comprehend how societies function, how they
change over time, and the factors influencing human behavior and relationships.

Solving Social Issues: They provide insights into social problems like poverty, inequality,
crime, and mental health, facilitating the development of policies and interventions.

Predicting Behavior: Social sciences enable predictions about human behavior and societal
trends, which can be valuable for decision-making and planning.

Nature of Natural Sciences:

Study of Natural Phenomena: Natural sciences investigate the physical and natural world,
including the laws governing the universe. They focus on the natural environment and phenomena.

Empirical and Experimental: Natural sciences rely heavily on empirical evidence and
experimentation. They seek to establish causal relationships through controlled experiments.
 Mathematical and Quantitative: Mathematics plays a central role in natural sciences. The use
of mathematical models is common for describing and predicting natural phenomena.

Objective and Universal Laws: Natural sciences aim to discover objective, universal laws that
apply consistently across time and space.

Reductionist Approach: Natural sciences often take a reductionist approach, breaking

complex systems into smaller, more manageable parts for analysis.

Functions of Natural Sciences:

Understanding the Natural World: Natural sciences help us understand the physical and
natural world, from subatomic particles to celestial bodies.

Technological Advancements: They lead to technological innovations and applications that

improve our lives, from medicine and energy production to space exploration.

Nature of Humanities:

Study of Human Culture: Humanities explore human culture, including literature, history,
philosophy, language, art, and music. They focus on the human experience, values, and ideas.

Interpretive and Qualitative: Humanities rely on interpretation, critical thinking, and

qualitative analysis of texts, artworks, and historical documents.

Subjective and Contextual: Interpretation in humanities is often subjective, influenced by

individual perspectives and the historical and cultural context in which a work was created.

Human Expression: Humanities celebrate human creativity, expression, and the pursuit of
meaning. They examine how humans have represented and reflected on their experiences.

Functions of Humanities:

Cultural Preservation: Humanities disciplines preserve and interpret cultural artifacts and
historical records, ensuring the continuity of human knowledge and traditions.

Critical Thinking: They promote critical thinking, empathy, and a deeper understanding of
human values, ethics, and societal dilemmas.

In summary, social sciences focus on human society and behavior, natural sciences explore
the physical world through empirical methods, and humanities delve into human culture and
expression. Each category has its unique nature, methodologies, and functions, contributing to our
comprehensive understanding of the world.

WEEK 3
Most Essential Learning Competencies
* Explain the major events and its contribution that led to the emergence of the social science
disciplines

THE EMERGENCE OF SOCIAL SCIENCES

The emergence of social science disciplines in the Philippines, like in many other countries, was
shaped by historical events, colonial influences, educational developments, and the need to understand
and address societal issues. Here are some major events and contributions that led to the emergence of
social science disciplines in the Philippines:

1. Spanish Colonial Period (16th to 19th centuries):

Contribution: During Spanish colonization, the Philippines was exposed to European ideas,
including those of Enlightenment thinkers. The Spanish colonial administration established
educational institutions that provided religious and classical education, influencing early Filipino
intellectuals.

2. American Colonial Period (1898-1946):

Contribution: American colonization introduced a more modern educational system. The
establishment of the University of the Philippines (UP) in 1908 played a significant role in promoting
the study of social sciences. UP became a hub for social science research and education.

3. Philippine Revolution and Nationalism (Late 19th to early 20th centuries):

Contribution: The struggle for independence and nationalism prompted Filipinos to question their
colonial rulers and explore sociopolitical ideas. Figures like Jose Rizal and Apolinario Mabini wrote
on social and political issues, laying the groundwork for the study of Philippine society.

4. Influence of American Scholars and Institutions:

Contribution: American scholars, particularly sociologists and anthropologists, conducted
research in the Philippines during the early 20th century. Their studies contributed to the
understanding of Philippine culture, society, and social issues. Notable figures include David P.
Barrows and H. Otley Beyer.

5. World War II and Post-War Period (1940s-1950s):

Contribution: The aftermath of World War II and the Philippine struggle for independence further
fueled the development of social science disciplines. The need to rebuild the nation and address social
issues prompted increased academic and research activities in the social sciences.

6. Academic Institutions and Research Centers:

Contribution: The establishment of various academic institutions, including universities and
research centers, expanded the study of social sciences. These institutions offered degree programs
and conducted research on Philippine society, politics, economics, and culture.

7. Social and Political Movements (1960s-1980s):

Contribution: The 1960s and 1970s saw the emergence of social and political movements in the
Philippines. These movements, such as student activism and labor strikes, provided a rich field for the
study of social sciences. Researchers and scholars examined issues related to labor, human rights,
governance, and social justice.

8. Contemporary Challenges and Research:

Contribution: Ongoing challenges in the Philippines, such as poverty, political instability,
environmental concerns, and globalization, continue to drive research and scholarship in the social
sciences. Researchers in various fields, including sociology, political science, economics, and
anthropology, study these issues to inform policy and promote social development.
 In summary, the emergence and growth of social science disciplines in the Philippines were
influenced by a combination of historical events, colonial legacies, educational developments, and the
country's own quest for identity, independence, and social progress. Today, Filipino scholars and
researchers in the social sciences play a crucial role in addressing contemporary societal challenges
and contributing to the nation's development.

FOR BROADENNING INFORMATION

The emergence of social science disciplines was a gradual process shaped by various
historical events and intellectual contributions. These disciplines, including sociology, psychology,
anthropology, economics, and political science, developed as responses to societal changes and the
pursuit of a deeper understanding of human behavior and society. Here are some major events and
contributions that led to the emergence of these disciplines:

1. The Enlightenment (17th to 18th centuries):

Contribution: The Enlightenment period saw the rise of reason and rational thought.
Philosophers like John Locke, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and Immanuel Kant laid the foundation for the
social sciences by exploring questions about the nature of society, government, and human rights.
They questioned traditional authority and sought to understand social and political phenomena
through reason and empirical observation.

2. The Industrial Revolution (18th to 19th centuries):

Contribution: The rapid industrialization and urbanization of Europe during this period brought
about profound social and economic changes. This transformation prompted scholars to examine the
impact of industrialization on society, labor, and living conditions, giving rise to sociology as a
discipline concerned with understanding the structure and dynamics of society.

3. Charles Darwin's Theory of Evolution (19th century):

Contribution: Charles Darwin's theory of evolution, outlined in "On the Origin of Species,"
influenced not only biology but also anthropology and psychology. His ideas about the evolution of
species and adaptation contributed to the development of evolutionary psychology and the study of
human behavior.
4. The Founding of Anthropology (19th century):
Contribution: Anthropology as a discipline emerged during the 19th century as explorers,
ethnographers, and scholars like Franz Boas began to systematically study and document the customs,
cultures, and societies of different indigenous groups around the world. This led to the development of
cultural anthropology, which sought to understand the diversity of human cultures.

5. Psychology as a Scientific Discipline (late 19th century):

Contribution: The late 19th century marked the establishment of psychology as a scientific
discipline. Figures like Wilhelm Wundt and William James conducted experiments and studies to
explore human consciousness, behavior, and mental processes. This laid the foundation for modern
psychology, including areas such as behaviorism, psychoanalysis, and cognitive psychology.

6. The Rise of Economics (late 18th to 19th centuries):

Contribution: The classical economists, including Adam Smith and David Ricardo, played a crucial
role in the development of economics as a distinct discipline. They explored concepts like the
invisible hand, market forces, and the division of labor, contributing to the understanding of how
economies function.

7. Political Revolutions and Political Science (18th to 19th centuries):

Contribution: The American Revolution, French Revolution, and other political upheavals
inspired political thinkers like John Adams, Thomas Paine, and Alexis de Tocqueville. Their writings
and observations contributed to the emergence of political science, which examines political systems,
governance, and political behavior.
 8. The Establishment of Social Science Institutions (late 19th to early 20th centuries):
Contribution: The establishment of academic institutions and research organizations dedicated to
the study of social phenomena, such as the founding of the London School of Economics and Political
Science in 1895, promoted interdisciplinary research and the formalization of social science
disciplines.

These historical events and intellectual contributions laid the groundwork for the emergence of
social science disciplines. Over time, these disciplines have continued to evolve, diversify, and
address contemporary societal challenges, contributing to our understanding of human behavior,
societies, and the world we live in.

WEEK 4

DISCIPLINES IN SOCIAL SCIENCES WITH

EXPLANANTION AND EXAMPLES

Most Essential Learning Competencies

* Explain the major events and its contribution that led to the emergence of the social science
disciplines

Social sciences encompass a wide range of disciplines that study various aspects of human
society, behavior, and interactions. Here are some key disciplines in social sciences, along with
explanations and examples of each:

1. Sociology:

Explanation: Sociology is the scientific study of society, including its structure, institutions, social
interactions, and social change. Sociologists examine how individuals and groups interact within a
given society.

Example: Research on the impact of social media on interpersonal relationships, the study of class
structures in society, and investigations into the causes of crime and deviance are all within the
domain of sociology.

2. Psychology:

Explanation: Psychology is the study of the human mind and behavior. It seeks to understand
individual and group behavior, cognition, emotions, and mental processes.

Example: Clinical psychology focuses on diagnosing and treating mental disorders, while
cognitive psychology explores how people think and learn. Social psychology examines how social
factors influence behavior.

3. Anthropology:

Explanation: Anthropology is the study of humans and human societies, past and present. It
includes cultural anthropology (the study of cultures), physical anthropology (the study of human
evolution and biology), archaeology (the study of past cultures through artifacts), and linguistic
anthropology (the study of language).
 Example: Cultural anthropologists might study the customs and traditions of an indigenous tribe,
while archaeologists excavate ancient cities to learn about past civilizations.

4. Economics:

Explanation: Economics is the study of how individuals, businesses, and governments allocate
resources to meet their needs and wants. It explores topics such as production, consumption, trade,
and the distribution of wealth.
Example: Macroeconomics examines national economies, inflation, and unemployment rates,
while microeconomics focuses on individual consumer behavior and market dynamics.

5. Political Science:

Explanation: Political science examines political systems, government structures, political

behavior, and the exercise of power. It also explores political ideologies and international relations.

Example: Comparative politics might analyze different forms of government, while international
relations looks at the interactions between nations, such as diplomacy and conflict resolution.

6. History:

Explanation: History is the study of past events and their impact on societies and cultures.
Historians research and analyze primary and secondary sources to construct narratives about the past.

Example: A historian might study the causes and consequences of World War II or analyze the
social changes during the Renaissance period.

7. Geography:

Explanation: Geography studies the Earth's physical features, environments, and the relationship
between humans and their surroundings. It includes human geography (the study of human-
environment interactions) and physical geography (the study of natural landscapes).

Example: Urban geography examines the spatial organization of cities, while environmental
geography investigates the impact of human activities on ecosystems.

8. Communication Studies/ Linguistics:

Explanation: Communication studies explore the process of human communication, including

verbal and nonverbal communication, media, rhetoric, and interpersonal interactions.

Example: Media studies might analyze the influence of advertising on consumer behavior, while
rhetoric examines the art of persuasive speech and writing.

9. Social Work:

Explanation: Social work is a profession focused on helping individuals and communities cope
with and solve problems. Social workers provide support and resources to vulnerable populations.

Example: A clinical social worker might provide therapy to individuals with mental health issues,
while a child welfare social worker may work with families to ensure the well-being of children.

10. Education:
 Explanation: Education studies the processes of teaching and learning, curriculum development,
and the organization of educational institutions.
Example: Educational psychologists examine factors that affect learning and development, while
educational policy researchers analyze the effectiveness of education reforms.

These social science disciplines provide valuable insights into different aspects of human society,
behavior, and culture. They contribute to our understanding of complex social issues and inform
policies and interventions aimed at improving the well-being of individuals and communities.

Disciplines and ideas in social sciences

WEEK 5

Most Essential Learning Competencies

*Analyze the basic concepts and principles of the major social science theories: a. Structural-
functionalism b. Marxism c. Symbolic Interactionism

STRUCTURAL-FUNCTIONALISM
Structural-functionalism is a major sociological theory
that focuses on the macro-level structures and functions of
society. It seeks to understand how various social institutions
and elements work together to maintain stability and
equilibrium. Here are the basic concepts and principles of
structural-functionalism:

1. Functional Integration:
Concept: Structural-functionalism views society as a complex
system made up of various interrelated parts, including institutions, norms, values, and roles.
Principle: These parts of society function together to maintain stability and order. Each institution and
element serves a specific function that contributes to the overall equilibrium of society.
2. Manifest and Latent Functions:
Concept: Structural-functionalism distinguishes between manifest functions (intended and
recognized) and latent functions (unintended and often unrecognized) of social institutions and
practices.
Principle: For example, the manifest function of education is to provide knowledge, while its latent
functions might include social networking or skill development.
3. Social Equilibrium:
Concept: Structural-functionalism emphasizes that societies tend to seek equilibrium or stability.
Principle: When there is a disturbance or change in one part of society, other parts adjust to restore
balance. This process helps ensure the smooth functioning of the overall social system.
4. Consensus and Order:
Concept: Structural-functionalism assumes that societies have a shared consensus on values, norms,
and goals.
Principle: This consensus contributes to social order and stability. Deviations from these shared
values and norms are seen as sources of dysfunction and social instability.
5. Integration and Interdependence:
Concept: Structural-functionalism highlights the interdependence of various social institutions.
Principle: Each institution relies on others to fulfill its functions. For example, the education system
depends on the family to prepare children for schooling, and the economy depends on the education
system to produce a skilled workforce.
6. Critiques and Limitations:
Concept: Structural-functionalism has faced criticism for various reasons.
Principle: Critics argue that it tends to downplay social conflict, inequalities, and the role of power
dynamics in society. It is also accused of being overly deterministic and lacking in explanatory power
for understanding social change.
 7. Influential Figures:
Concept: Prominent sociologists have contributed to the development and refinement of structural-
functionalism.
Principle: These figures include Emile Durkheim, Talcott Parsons, Robert K. Merton, and Kingsley
Davis, each of whom made significant contributions to the theory.
In summary, structural-functionalism is a social science theory that emphasizes the interplay
of social structures and their functions in maintaining social order and stability. It posits that society
functions like an organism, with various institutions and elements working together to ensure
equilibrium. While it has been influential in understanding the basic mechanics of society, it has also
faced criticism for its limited attention to social conflict and change.

Most Essential Learning Competencies

*Analyze the basic concepts and principles of the major social science theories Marxism

MARXISM
Marxism is a significant social science theory that
originated from the works of Karl Marx and Friedrich
Engels. It provides a critical analysis of society,
particularly focusing on the dynamics of class struggle and
the role of economics in shaping human history and
society. Here are the basic concepts and principles of
Marxism:

1. Historical Materialism:

Concept: Marxism is built upon the idea of historical

materialism, which suggests that the material conditions of society, especially its economic structure,
drive historical change.

Principle: Changes in the mode of production (the way society produces goods and services) lead to
changes in social, political, and cultural structures. Marxists believe that history can be understood as
a series of class struggles driven by economic forces.

2. Class Struggle:

Concept: Marxism posits that society is fundamentally divided into social classes, primarily the
bourgeoisie (owners of the means of production) and the proletariat (those who sell their labor).

Principle: Class struggle is the central dynamic of history. Marxists argue that the bourgeoisie exploits
the proletariat by extracting surplus value from their labor, leading to inherent conflict between the
two classes.

3. Alienation:

Concept: Marxism emphasizes the concept of alienation, where workers under capitalism are
estranged from the products of their labor, the process of production, their fellow workers, and even
their own human potential.

Principle: Alienation results from the commodification of labor, where workers are treated as
commodities, and their labor is reduced to a means of making profits for the bourgeoisie.

4. Means of Production:
Concept: Marxism distinguishes between the means of production (e.g., factories, land, machinery)
and the relations of production (social relationships and power dynamics within the production
process).

Principle: Control over the means of production is a key determinant of class position and power in
society.
5. Proletarian Revolution:

Concept: Marxism anticipates that the working class (proletariat) will eventually become aware of its
exploitation and rise against the capitalist system.

Principle: The proletarian revolution is seen as a necessary and inevitable historical event that will
lead to the overthrow of the bourgeoisie and the establishment of a classless society (communism).

6. Critique of Capitalism:

Concept: Marxism critically examines capitalism, highlighting its contradictions, exploitation, and
tendencies to generate inequality and crisis.

Principle: Capitalism is viewed as an inherently unstable system that benefits a minority (bourgeoisie)
at the expense of the majority (proletariat).

7. Dictatorship of the Proletariat:

Concept: After the proletarian revolution, Marxism envisions a transitional period where the working
class holds political power to reorganize society.

Principle: During this phase, referred to as the "dictatorship of the proletariat," the state is used to
protect the interests of the working class and gradually transition to communism.

8. Classless Society (Communism):

Concept: Marxism envisions a future communist society where the state withers away, and there is no
private ownership of the means of production.

Principle: In communism, the means of production are collectively owned, and there is no class
division, leading to a stateless, egalitarian society.

IN CONCLUSION, Marxism is a complex and multifaceted theory that has had a profound
influence on social and political thought. While it has been critiqued and adapted over time, its core
concepts and principles continue to shape discussions about class, inequality, and social change in
contemporary society.

Most Essential Learning Competencies

*Analyze the basic concepts and principles of the major social science theories Symbolic
Interactionism

SYMBOLIC INTERACTIONISM

Symbolic Interactionism is a major sociological

theory that focuses on the micro-level interactions and
communication between individuals in society. It explores
how people create and interpret symbols, signs, and meanings to construct their social reality. Here
are the basic concepts and principles of Symbolic Interactionism:

1. Symbolic Meaning:

Concept: Symbolic Interactionism emphasizes that individuals use symbols, signs, and
language to convey meaning and make sense of the world.

Principle: Symbols can include words, gestures, clothing, and other signs that have shared
meanings within a specific cultural or social context.

2. Interaction and Self:

Concept: The theory highlights the role of social interaction in shaping individual identity and
self-concept.

Principle: Through interactions with others, individuals develop a sense of who they are, how
they are perceived, and how they fit into society. This process is ongoing and can change over time.
3. Social Construction of Reality:

Concept: Symbolic Interactionism argues that reality is socially constructed through the
ongoing interactions and shared meanings among individuals.

Principle: What is considered real or meaningful is subject to interpretation within specific

social contexts. Different people may perceive the same thing differently based on their experiences
and interactions.

4. Role-Taking:

Concept: Role-taking is the ability to see oneself from the perspective of others and
understand their viewpoints.

Principle: Symbolic Interactionism suggests that individuals engage in role-taking to navigate

social situations effectively. They imagine themselves in the position of others, anticipate reactions,
and adjust their behavior accordingly.

5. Micro-Level Analysis:

Concept: Symbolic Interactionism is primarily a micro-level theory, focusing on individual

and small-group interactions.

Principle: It explores the nuances of everyday life, communication, and social behavior.
Researchers often use qualitative research methods, such as participant observation and in-depth
interviews, to study these interactions.

6. Identity and Labeling:

Concept: Symbolic Interactionism emphasizes the role of labels and identities in shaping
individuals' self-concept and behavior.

Principle: When individuals are labeled or categorized in certain ways (e.g., as "student,"
"parent," "criminal"), they often internalize these labels, which can influence their actions and how
they are perceived by others.

7. Significant Others and Reference Groups:

 Concept: Significant others are individuals who have a strong influence on an individual's
self-concept, such as parents, peers, or mentors.

Principle: Symbolic Interactionism suggests that people are more influenced by the
perspectives and expectations of their significant others and reference groups when forming their
identities and making decisions.

8. Critiques and Limitations:

Concept: Symbolic Interactionism has been critiqued for its limited attention to structural
factors, such as inequalities and societal forces.
Principle: Critics argue that it may not fully account for larger structural constraints and
power dynamics that shape individuals' experiences and opportunities.

In summary, Symbolic Interactionism is a sociological theory that focuses on the way

individuals create and interpret symbols and meanings in their social interactions. It emphasizes the
role of communication, identity formation, and the social construction of reality in shaping human
behavior and society. While it provides valuable insights into the micro-level dynamics of social life,
it is often complemented by other sociological theories that address macro-level issues and structural
factors.