BSED Major in Social Studies 2

Social Studies in the Philippines

The comparison of sociological perspectives from the 1970s and early 1980s to the 1990s highlights significant changes in the field.

Greater Pluralism in the 1990s

Theoretical Perspectives: The 1990s saw a convergence of theoretical frameworks, leading to greater pluralism in sociological approaches to development. Sociologists began to adopt and integrate diverse perspectives, moving away from rigid ideological divides. This openness allowed for a more holistic understanding of development issues, incorporating various social, economic, and political factors.

Interdisciplinary Framework

Broadening Sociological Problems: Philippine sociology in the 1990s became increasingly interdisciplinary, recognizing that sociological problems often intersect with issues from other fields such as economics, political science, and anthropology. This shift led to a broader definition of sociological problems, allowing sociologists to address complex societal issues more effectively.

Blurring of Distinctions: The traditional distinctions between basic and applied sociology began to blur. This meant that theoretical insights were increasingly applied to practical problems, and practical concerns informed theoretical discussions. Such integration facilitated a more dynamic approach to research and application, fostering collaboration among different disciplines.

Overall, these trends reflect a maturing sociological landscape in the Philippines, emphasizing adaptability and inclusivity in addressing societal challenges.

Pluralism refers to a social or political philosophy that recognizes and affirms diversity within a society. It acknowledges the coexistence of various cultural, religious, ethnic, or ideological groups and values their contributions to the overall social fabric. Here are some key aspects of pluralism:

1. Diversity: Pluralism emphasizes the importance of diverse perspectives, beliefs, and practices. It encourages the acceptance and coexistence of different ways of life.

2. Mutual Respect: In a pluralistic society, individuals and groups are expected to respect one another's differences, fostering an environment where dialogue and understanding can thrive.

3. Political Pluralism: In a political context, pluralism advocates for the representation of multiple interests and groups in the decision-making process, promoting democratic governance and preventing the dominance of a single viewpoint.

4. Cultural Pluralism: This aspect focuses on the coexistence of various cultural groups within a society, encouraging the preservation and celebration of cultural identities while promoting interaction and cooperation among them.

5. Philosophical Pluralism: In philosophy, pluralism can refer to the idea that multiple truths or perspectives can coexist and that no single viewpoint can fully encompass the complexity of reality.

Overall, pluralism fosters a more inclusive and harmonious society by valuing diversity and promoting cooperation among different groups.

During the 1990s, several key figures significantly influenced sociology, development studies, and interdisciplinary approaches in the Philippines and globally. Here are a few notable individuals:

1. Walter W. Rostow: An influential economist and political theorist, Rostow's work on the stages of economic growth contributed to development theory discussions, emphasizing a linear progression toward modernization.

2. Amartya Sen: A prominent economist and philosopher, Sen's work on welfare economics and development highlighted the importance of human capabilities and social justice, shifting the focus from purely economic growth to human well-being.