humanities and social sciences

The Social Sciences and Humanities

The academic disciplines that study society, human culture, and interpersonal connections are the social sciences and humanities. The social sciences analyze and research human nature and behavior, including governmental and human social systems and interpersonal communication within those structures. Humanities, on the other hand, are those academic fields that concentrate on human belief systems, interpersonal interactions, human art and culture, and how individuals express themselves and create meaning (In Powell, 1969).

Differences Between Social Sciences and Humanities

Since social science takes a scientific approach, it is seen as a field of study that falls between natural science and humanities. Humanities are seen to be more philosophical compared to the social science. Another main difference between the two disciplines is that humanities involve more analytical and scientific approach while the social sciences are sciences and they use more scientific techniques. Humanities utilize analytical methods to explain concepts, and they are descriptive (In Powell, 1969). This is the reason why one can find more understanding in humanities and more explanation in the social sciences.

The Scope of Humanities and Social Sciences

Humanities deal with questions of what makes us human and heritage. It also focuses on visual/performing arts, religion, history, philosophy, modern languages, ancient languages, history, as well law. Social sciences employ rational as well as an objective methodology (reliability and validity tests) to give the facts. Humanities provide a better understanding through addressing and exploring big questions to meet challenges in the human conditions (In Powell, 1969).

The Importance of Social Sciences and Humanities

Social sciences and humanities are essential disciplines in understanding human nature. They present a better knowledge of how human beings relate to one another.

Reference

In Powell, T. F. (1969). Humanities and the social studies. Washington: National Council for the Social Studies.