I am a Social Scientist not a Scientist

By Adeniyi Yusuf

 No doubt, people have hitherto misconstrued "social scientist" and "scientist" as though they are the same. However, the distinguishing features inherent in both are not far-fetched. As someone who identifies as a social scientist, kindly allow me to embark on the voyage of demystifying these two concepts. 

A social scientist delves into the complexities of human society. He solves problems with a curious mind and an arsenal of research methods that are birthed from empirical research rather than laboratory tests or diagnoses. In Social Scientists, we deal with people, not petri dishes. Our laboratory is the Society itself.

Unlike our counterparts in the natural sciences, who rely on diagnostic tools, lab coats, and microscopes to uncover the secrets of the physical world, we rely on critical thinking, empathy, and the power of observation to untangle the messiness of human behavior.

In the same vein, a scientist is your classic lab hero: the biologist who studies cells, the physicist who plays with quantum mechanics, or the pharmacist who blends chemicals to create life-saving drugs. In short, they’re the reason you have vaccines, electricity, and even the discovery that tomatoes are technically fruits.

Having acknowledged these differences, I assert that social scientists recognize the dynamic and evolving nature of human society. This dynamism necessitates varied research methods, including surveys, historical analysis, ethnographic studies, in-depth interviews, and field observations, all of which are essential to unraveling complex societal problems. Thus, below are the reasons why I am a social scientist, not a scientist:

1. Trial and Error is not my Thing.

Scientists love trial and error. In fact, it is practically their love language. Social scientists? We demand more. Before our findings can strut into the hall of fame as "theory," they must endure the grueling test of time. No shortcuts, no compromises.

2. Society is my playing ground.

I don’t just observe society; I dive into it headfirst. I solve problems that span from the classroom to the boardroom, always keeping an eye on the shifting tides of culture, technology, and human nature.

3. Perspective is everything.

While scientists chase one "right" answer, social scientists embrace the beauty of perspectives. Whether it’s resolving conflicts or analyzing trends, the approach changes depending on the lens you choose.

4. Humans don’t Fit in the Test Tube.

Here’s the thing about people: they’re wonderfully unpredictable. You can’t pop someone into a lab and predict their behavior like you can with chemical reactions. Humans are fluid, ever-changing, and refreshingly complex.

5. Change is life

As a social scientist, I understand that change is the only constant. Societies evolve, adapt, and surprise us in ways that keep our research dynamic and exciting.

Where is the Intersection?

To be fair, social sciences and natural sciences aren’t sworn enemies. In fact, we sometimes play nice. Yet, even in our collaborations, the heart of our disciplines remains distinct. Scientists decode the mysteries of the physical world, while social scientists unpack the enigma of human existence.

So, why am I a social scientist and not a scientist? Because I thrive on the unpredictability of human behavior. Because I see the world as a kaleidoscope of perspectives, not just a puzzle to solve. And because, honestly, society offers more drama, humor, and intrigue than any laboratory ever could.

In the end, both roles are indispensable. Scientists give us the "how" of the world, while social scientists reveal the "why." Together, we make the world a better and infinitely more interesting place. Thank you, and I’ll see you in two weeks!

 

Adeniyi Yusuf is a final-year Mass Communication student at Ahmadu Bello University. He is a writer and serves as a cover editor for the Faculty of Social Sciences at ABU. For writing inquiries or social discourse, he can be reached at adeyus2001@gmail.com