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VOL. 5, ISSUE 3 (2023)
Why social sciences matter ?
Authors
Dr. R Nagabhushan
Abstract
In terms of benefit to society, the social sciences have traditionally
been held to lag behind in comparison to natural sciences, engineering and
medicine. The findings and impact of social science projects cannot be so
readily gauged by the basis of number of papers, patents or spin-offs. For the
most part, therefore, a ‘direct benefit’ for society cannot be demonstrated.
However, research in the social sciences and humanities is of particular
relevance to the transition process. It can help identify the need for reform
in sectors critical to a country’s political stability and socio-economic
development, such as inter-ethnic relations, protection of minorities,
nation-building, good governance and state-building. The aim of the social
sciences is not introspective self-observation, nor is it limited to the
critical analysis of society. They also seek to draw attention to problem areas
and alternative courses of action within society itself. Precisely through this
function, the social sciences are also able to nurture the hope, or the
illusion, that their discourses and findings have an impact on society, on
public opinion, and on policy making. Research findings can contribute to the
identification of new forms of discrimination and exclusion, and to alerting
policy-makers to the need to address these issues.
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Pages:6-9
How to cite this article:
Dr. R Nagabhushan "Why social sciences matter ?". International Journal of Social Science and Humanities, Vol 5, Issue 3, 2023, Pages 6-9
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