Understanding the definition of the social science lens was an
important factor in deciding which previous topic I'd like to revisit.
According to a guide through our University's library system, the social
science lens "looks at how humans act in their social environment.
While the humanities also studies human action, social sciences more
specifically look at our social relations, our relationships and our
societies" ("The Lenses Identified", n.d.). In Module 3 I discussed the
affects of technology on society at large and how historians would look
back on the times of the "Social Media Boom". i
Critically analyzing technology's affect on society through a social
science lens is very pertinent. Often, studies have highlighted how
social media has negatively impacted individuals (ie anxiety,
depression). Looking at social media through the social science lens,
however, the good and bad of social media can be identified, defined,
and hopefully altered eventually for the better. The positives of social
media through a social science lens is more connectivity between
various cultures, a better understanding of those different than us
through open communication, and a sense of belonging for those who
have trouble connecting with people in the physical world. The
negatives are also evident through the social science lens, where
individual isolation is much easier, relationships can be superficial, and
the nuance of human interaction can be lost.
The social science lens has helped my understanding of social media's
impact on society by allowing me to clearly see both positive and
negative aspects. I recognize that I carry a negative bias towards social
media, but by looking through the social science lens I'm able to have
more understanding for the good social media can do for people and
communities. Any analysis is stronger when viewing a topic through
multiple lenses, but in particular it strengthens the understanding of
social media's impact on society. Pairing the chemical reaction of the
brain (applied science), the social impact (social science), and the
historical impact (historical lens), a convincing, comprehensive analysis
can be crafted.
References:
The Lenses identified. Research Guides SNHU. (n.d.). Retrieved July 31,
2022, from https://libguides.snhu.edu/ids400
