Inquiry in the Natural Sciences_HONS1133:Inquiry in the Social Sciences_HONS1131: Social Sciences
What is Social Science?
[Source: images.google.com ]
so·cial sci·ence : soʊʃəl ˈsaɪəns/
social, adj. and n. (noun): Of or relating to society, as social background, social climate, social duty, social fabric, social issue, social question, social virtue, etc.
Compound Definition: Definition: The study of human society and social relationships; a subject within this field, as economics, politics, sociology, etc.
[Source: Oxford English Dictionary Online]
Social Science Databases
What do Social Scientists Do?
Social Scientists can be found in any of these academic disciplines:
- Anthropology
- Criminology
- Law/Justice
- Economics
- Geography
- History
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Sociology
[Adapted from: Occupational Outlook Handbook]
Social Scientists collect data in a variety of ways, "... most of which involve working with others. Some of these methods may include interviews, questionnaires, and surveys as well as application of scientific method and techniques such as participant observation. Consequently, interpersonal communication, presentation, and writing abilities lead to success in the field. Her are a couple of examples:
[Adapted from: https://www.bestcolleges.com/careers/humanities-and-social-sciences/social-science/ ]
Resources for Students from ICPSR
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What is ICPSR?Inter-University Consortium for Political and Social Research (University of Michigan)
What is the difference between the social sciences and the natural sciences?
Here is some background information
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Life, Physical, and Social Science Occupationsfrom the Occupational Outlook Handbook
Here are some related subject guides for resources at Georgia Southern--and beyond!
More Tips for Reading Social Science Articles
Here are some additional guidelines to help you:
- SQ3R: How to Read an Academic Article
- How to Read An Academic Article (Austin College)
- Types of Articles in Social Science Journals (GS LibGuide)
Do you still have questions about where to search and which sources to select? Contact me at rbaker@georgiasouthern.edu or make an appointment. I am here to help you!