Perhaps one of the most frequently asked questions people have about LSE is, what actually is social science? This blog post will briefly define what this term means, and more importantly, the real-life applications of social science as an academic discipline.
In simple terms, social science is “the study of society and the manner in which people behave and influence the world around us” (UKRI, 2022).
What does this entail in real terms? Well, the study of social science helps explain why we behave the way we do, and why society functions the way it does. From the causes of unemployment to what helps economies grow, to why people vote, or what makes people happy, these are just a few questions social scientists tackle.
A running joke that humanities and social science students often share is how any question can be answered by “it depends”. Although this answer might sound like an easy way out, it does reveal the complex nature of studying social science. Unlike maths equations, there rarely one “right” answer! Social science deals with human behaviour, societies, and cultures, which are complex and ever-changing. So, instead of one right answer, there may be many.
The study of social sciences is vital as it encourages us think about the world from many different perspectives. It also equips us with both quantitative and qualitative skills to better prepare us for whatever career lies ahead. One of the reasons that makes LSE a leading institution for social science is the support that students receive, as well as the challenging questions we are asked to answer. LSE is also proud to have an amazing public events platform that invites global thinkers working at the forefront of their fields – so if you are ever in town and want to get a glimpse of what social science is, or even what the School looks like, this is a great opportunity! In the past, LSE has hosted events with Lord Nicholas Stern, Amartya Sen, and Judith Butler among other notable speakers.
Many other resources are available on the “What is Social Science” page, so I highly recommend you check it out if you want to learn more!
