Understanding the meaning and the purpose of social science, or sociology, is not only detrimental for further studies within the context of the discipline but also the general and multi-dimensional knowledge of an individual. Social sciences are essential for exploring the relationships and interconnections of human beings, including the conditions that limit their lives and those conditions that enable various opportunities in front of them (Hunt & Colander, 2016). While such social phenomena as gender or racial bias and unequal opportunities based on class are limiting to humans in society, the freedom of expression and voting are enablers of progress.
Notably, one should consider that there are limitations to social sciences that could be overlooked, and taking them into account could provide a more comprehensive understanding of how it can improve in the future. As social sciences have been compared to the Tower of Babel, scholars have not finished building their tower, with the key criticism being aimed at the fact that sociology is far from solving pressing social issues (Demers, 2011). Therefore, more work should be done on developing practical solutions that could address social challenges in the areas of racial bias and discrimination, unequal opportunities, gender roles, and much more. The need for global collaboration of sociologies is essential for facilitating the expansion of knowledge and its interaction. One can agree that positive change cannot be immediate; however, in order for sociology not to “transform” into the Tower of Babel and dissolve as a discipline, it is imperative to continue a dialogue and continue working on the crucial recommendations for social reforms that could have a detrimental influence on improving the lives of a global society.
References
Demers, D. (2011). The ivory tower of Babel: Why the social sciences are failing to live up to their promises. Algora Publishing.
Hunt, E., & Colander, D. (2013). Social science: An introduction to the study of society (15th ed.). Pearson Education.