(GESTSOC) Notes
(GESTSOC) Notes
(GESTSOC) Notes
➔ The systematic study of the structure and behavior of the natural and physical world
or knowledge obtained about the world by watching it carefully (cambridge dictionary)
➔ Refers to that dynamic, cumulative system of verifiable concepts, principles, methods,
laws, theories, and processes which seek to describe, understand, and predict natural
phenomena (Posadas, 1982)
SOCIETY
➔ A large group of people who live together in an organized way, making decisions about
things and sharing the work that needs to be done. All the people in a country or in
several countries, can be referred to as a society (Cambridge Dictionary).
➔ Organized life in groups, typical of humans or animals (Kotak, 2000).
➔ People who interact in a defined territory and share culture (Macionis, 2000).
TYPES OF RESEARCH
1. Basic or Fundamental
- discover knowledge for knowledge's sake without considering its application
to societal problems.
2. Applied Research
- discover knowledge that is relevant to the achievement of some specific and
socially relevant objective.
RESEARCH CONCEPTS
1. Reliability
- Extent to which the same answers can be obtained using the same
instruments more than one time. In simple terms, if your research is
associated with high levels of reliability, then other researchers need to be able
to generate the same results, using the same research methods under similar
conditions (e.g. using a ruler to measure length)
2. Validity
- Extent at which requirements of scientific research methods have been
followed during the process of generating research findings. It also means
that the appropriate methodology is chosen considering the characteristics of the
study.
- For example:
a. Using the appropriate time scale
b. Using the most suitable sample method and size for the study
c. Ensuring that respondents must not be pressured in any way when
answering surveys
SCIENTIFIC METHOD
- Systematic process of inquiry that comprises the following activities.
1. Identification and definition of the problem
2. Formulation of the Hypothesis
3. Testing of Hypothesis
EMPIRICAL-POSITIVISM
- an epistemology that defines the production of knowledge and truth about human
societies. This is used heavily in the social sciences and other related disciplines. It has
the following features:
1. Observability (knowledge is based on an actual observable phenomenon)
2. Objectivity (knowledge is based on the actual characteristics of the subject or
phenomenon)
3. Neutrality (knowledge is generated independently and free from any bias)
4. Measurability (knowledge is expressed in a numerical index)
5. Externality of Expertise (observer must be detached and have scientific
credentials)
SOCIOCULTURAL EVOLUTION
- Sociocultural evolution refers to the changes that occur as a society gains new
technology.
- Societies with simple technology can provide for only a small number of people and offer
a few choices about how to live.
- Technology complex societies (while not necessarily better) support large populations
who live diverse, highly specialized lives.
TYPES OF SOCIETY
LIMITS OF TECHNOLOGY
- Technology is not a quick fix to social problems. Technology alone is not the
solution to establish peace, ensure justice, and sustain a safe environment.
COMPETITION
- Competitive advantage of nations written by Micheal Porter
- Competitiveness of a Nation is determined by its productivity:
● The use of a nation's capital and labor
● Value of the output produced by a unit of labor or capital
● Quality and features of products and services which determine market price
● Employee wages depend on the productivity of human resources
● Return for shareholder depend on the productivity of capital
- To ensure high levels of productivity a nation’s companies should be able to increase
productivity over time by continuously upgrading itself in terms of:
● Improving productivity of existing industries
● Raising product quality
● Adding desirable features
● Improving technology
● Boosting production and marketing efficiency
● New and sophisticated industries
3. Importance of the scientific attitude and teaching others about science and technology.
- As future leaders, you must recognize the importance of using science and
technology to help develop your country’s and company’s competitive
advantage. This undertaking is not realized alone.
- You need to influence those around you to listen to science and convince them
to use technology properly. This is best done by taking time to teach.
- The responsibility to teach and educate others is a responsibility that comes
with being a leader.