Branches of Social Science

Anthropology: This branch of social science covers the study of the origin of human beings. Of
particular interest is the study of the nature of the social relationships between people and how they
have developed. Anthropology aims to give a whole and complete explanation of human nature.

Economics: In this branch of social science, the study of the production, distribution and consumption
of goods and services are covered. The main focus of economics lies in understanding and explaining
how economies work and how factors contributing to economies interact with each other.

Education: This branch of social science studies the institution of teaching in human society. Covered
in this field of study are the processes by which knowledge is passed on and how specific skills are
taught and learned. This process of education is examined throughout an individual's lifetime, that is
from childbirth and on to old age.

Geography: This branch of social science can be subdivided into two main sub-disciplines namely;
human geography and physical geography. Human geography is mainly concerned with the built
environment and the influence humans have on the spaces they occupy.

Physical geography on the other hand looks into the natural environment. Of particular interest in this
field is the study of how climate, vegetation & life, soil, water and landforms are produced and how
they interact.

History: This branch of social science covers the study of the human past. It is a field of study that
uses past accounts to examine and analyze sequences of events. It also sometimes attempts to
investigate in an objective manner, the patterns of cause and effect that have led to particular events
taking place.

Law: This branch of social science studies the institution of the rule of law in human society and it
sometimes crosses over into the humanities depending on the aspect from which it is studied. Of
particular interest are its origin and the way in which a supreme power in a state commands what is
“right” and prohibits what is considered “wrong.”

Political Science: In this field of study, the theory and practice of politics is examined. Also covered is
the description and analysis of political systems including political behavior. Political science is the
branch of social science that deals with the study of politics and analysis of its system as well as
political behavior.

Psychology: This branch of social science involves the study of behavior and mental processes. Of
particular interest is the application of this knowledge to the treatment of mental illness.

Sociology: Covered in this branch of social science is the study of human society and social action.

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