THE CHALLENGE OF CHANGE

THE SOCIAL SCIENCES AND CHANGE There are different ways – or disciplines – that help us understand and explain social change These are all called “SOCIAL SCIENCES” Anthropology Sociology Psychology History Economics Political Science Geography

ANTHROPOLOGY, PSYCHOLOGY, SOCIOLOGY The study of the human species and its origins and the development of its language and culture PSYCHOLOGY The study of the human mind, behaviours, emotions, cognitive processes and personality SOCIOLOGY The study of society and social behaviour

FORMULATING QUESTIONS With a partner, formulate THREE study questions on the topic of CRIMINAL BEHAVIOUR … for each discipline

ANTHROPOLOGY AND SOCIAL CHANGE Examines past and present cultures in order to understand social change Studies how change comes about in cultural groups EXAMPLES: Diffusion: The spread of a cultural trait from one society to another through social contact Acculturation: Contact, exposure and exchange of ideas between different cultures resulting in changes and adaptations in both groups

ANTHROPOLOGY, cont’d SCHOOLS OF THOUGHT Cultural Materialism Physical materials, conditions, and economic activity determine how ideas develop in a culture Functionalism Problems in a society arise the physical and psychological needs of the majority of its members are attempted to be met

PSYCHOLOGY AND SOCIAL CHANGE Social change is the result of the transformation of one’s attitudes, beliefs and behaviours, and the effects of these transformations on society SCHOOLS OF THOUGHT: Learning Theory Learning alters the way one interprets the world which leads to permanent behaviour changes Psychoanalytic Theory Behaviour is produced by the conscious and unconscious parts of the mind Frustration is caused by the inability to balance these two parts

SOCIOLOGY AND SOCIAL CHANGE Sociologists study interactions and conflicts within groups All societies are governed by norms SCHOOLS OF THOUGHT Structural Functionalism Society’s inherent function is to provide stability and balance through institutions Marxism Economic power and material wealth creates competition, which propels change in society Feminism Inequalities exist in society stemming from a value system in society that favours men and excludes women