Objective of Social Science
Foundational Theories & Historical Perspectives
- Understand the foundational concepts, theories, and methodologies of social sciences.
- Analyze the contributions of different civilizations (Mesopotamian, Greek, Islamic, European) to social thought.
Philosophical & Sociological Paradigms
- Evaluate major philosophical and sociological paradigms, including functionalism, conflict theory, and postmodernism.
- Critically assess the impact of colonialism, capitalism, and globalization on modern societies.
Contemporary Issues & Global Perspectives
- Explore contemporary issues such as social justice, human rights, and governance.
- Compare Eurocentric and non-Western perspectives to develop a balanced worldview.
Practical Application & Ethical Frameworks
- Apply ethical and epistemological frameworks to real-world social challenges.
Course Modules of Social Science
There are six modules in this course
Module 1: Foundations of Social Science
- What is Social Science?
- Integration of Different Disciplines in Social Sciences
- What is Knowledge? The Science Behind It
- Epistemology: Sources and Validity of Knowledge
- Ethics and Its Different Models
- Deep Understanding of the World and Society
- Is Scientific Superiority a Myth?
Module 2: Revelation, Reason, and Philosophy
- How Revelation Completes Reason
- Critical Analysis of Philosophy
- Concept of Society
- Understanding Society through Different Perspectives
- Functionalist and Conflict Perspectives
- Critical Analyses of Social Stratification
Module 3: Civilisations and Intellectual Traditions
- Early Civilisations: Mesopotamia, Indus Valley, Egyptian
- Greek Philosophy: Socrates, Plato, Aristotle
- Christian Scholasticism
- Islamic Medieval Thinkers
- Moses Maimonides
- Islamic Golden Age
- Influence of the Golden Age on the European Renaissance
- Trade Ethics
- Dark Ages of Europe
- Eurocentric and Orientalist Worldviews
- Andalusia: A Model of Intellectual and Religious Co-existence
Module 4: Modern Western Thought and Its Impact
- The Renaissance
- The Enlightenment
- Major Thinkers of Enlightenment
- Western Colonisation
- Modern Political and Social Thought
- Capitalism and Socialism
- Major Thinkers:
- • Michel Foucault
• Max Weber
• John Rawls
• Antonio Gramsci
• Jurgen Habermas
• Harold Garfinkel
• Erving Goffman
• G.H. Mead
• Edward Said
- • Michel Foucault
Module 5: Contemporary Social Challenges and Concepts
- Materialism
- Conspicuous Consumption
- Concept of Social Justice
- Postmodern Challenges:
- • Westernisation
• Feminism
• Radical Scepticism
- • Westernisation
Module 6: Governance, Rights, and Global Structures
- Governance
- Rule of Law
- Concept of Separation of Power
- Role of Judiciary
- Concept of Human Rights
- Globalisation
- World Mapping (Physical & Political)
Outcomes of Course
- Develop a holistic and critical perspective on societal structures.
- Gain historical and philosophical insights into modern governance and justice.
- Be equipped to engage in informed debates on globalization, ethics, and social change.
- Appreciate the diversity of intellectual traditions beyond Eurocentric narratives.
- Be prepared for further studies in political science, sociology, philosophy, or international relations.
