Social Science vs. Social Studies — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Published on November 15, 2023
Social Science is a branch of study which examines society and human behaviors, whereas Social Studies is a broader educational field that includes history, geography, and other disciplines.
Difference Between Social Science and Social Studies
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Social Science is a dedicated academic discipline that delves into the study of societies and human behaviors. It uses empirical and critical methods to analyze human interactions and societal structures. Social Studies, on the other hand, is an educational term referring to a broader field of study encompassing various disciplines including history, geography, and economics.
In schools, when students engage in Social Science, they're often studying specific areas like sociology, psychology, or anthropology. These fields adopt scientific methodologies to answer questions about human society. Social Studies courses, conversely, usually combine various subjects to provide a comprehensive overview of human experiences and the world around us.
When we talk about research, Social Science is typically more specialized and in-depth, focusing on particular aspects of human society and behavior. Scholars in this field aim to unravel the complexities of human interactions. In contrast, Social Studies in an educational context offers a holistic view, shaping a well-rounded understanding of the world and its past, present, and potential futures.
In essence, while Social Science represents a focused exploration of human society using scientific methodologies, Social Studies acts as an umbrella term, encompassing a wider range of subjects that help students grasp the entirety of human experiences.
Comparison Chart
Definition
An academic discipline studying human behaviors.
An educational field covering various disciplines.
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Methodology
Empirical and critical methods.
Broad, interdisciplinary approach.
Scope
Specialized in individual areas of human society.
Holistic overview of human history and experiences.
Primary Focus
Human behaviors and interactions.
Historical, geographical, and societal studies.
Usage
Research, higher education.
Elementary and secondary education.
Compare with Definitions
Social Science
The scientific study of human society and relationships.
Research in Social Science provides insights into human behavior.
Social Studies
A curriculum aiming to shape informed and active citizens.
Through Social Studies, students gain civic awareness.
Social Science
An investigation into the patterns of social relationships.
The principles of Social Science often inform public policy.
Social Studies
An educational subject encompassing history, geography, and more.
Social Studies lessons provide a comprehensive view of the world.
Social Science
An inquiry into the causes and consequences of human behavior.
Social Science research has shed light on social inequalities.
Social Studies
The study of human society and its historical background.
Children learn about ancient civilizations in their Social Studies class.
Social Science
A discipline examining societal structures and human interactions.
Through Social Science, we can better understand group dynamics.
Social Studies
An exploration of various cultures, their histories, and interactions.
Social Studies emphasizes the importance of cultural diversity.
Social Science
The systematic analysis of human activities and societal developments.
Scholars in Social Science seek to decode societal trends.
Social Studies
The interdisciplinary study of past and present human societies.
In Social Studies, the focus spans from ancient empires to modern nations.
Common Curiosities
What is the main goal of Social Science?
To understand and analyze human behaviors and societal structures.
Is Social Studies limited to history?
No, Social Studies includes history, geography, economics, and more.
How is Social Science different from natural sciences?
Social Science focuses on human societies, while natural sciences study natural phenomena.
Why do schools teach Social Studies?
Social Studies helps students understand the world and their place in it.
What is the primary focus of Social Studies in elementary school?
It often introduces students to community, national history, and basic geography.
How do Social Science researchers gather data?
Through surveys, interviews, observations, and various other methods.
Are anthropology and sociology part of Social Science?
Yes, they are specialized disciplines within Social Science.
Do Social Studies promote cultural understanding?
Yes, Social Studies teach about various cultures, promoting tolerance and understanding.
What subjects are generally covered in Social Studies for middle school students?
Topics like world history, geography, and basic economics are often covered.
Is civics a part of Social Studies?
Yes, civics education is often integrated into Social Studies curricula.
Is Social Science purely theoretical?
No, Social Science combines both theoretical concepts and empirical research.
Can Social Studies include current events?
Yes, Social Studies can encompass both historical and contemporary issues.
Why is Social Science important for society?
It provides insights into societal challenges and helps in informed decision-making.
Can Social Science influence public policies?
Yes, research in Social Science can guide policy-making.
Is psychology a part of Social Science?
Yes, psychology is a discipline within Social Science that studies the human mind and behavior.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
