Philosophical Influences on Social Sciences

The video introduces the foundations of social sciences in public policy, highlighting historical influences and philosophical schools of thought like positivism and humanism. It discusses the Enlightenment's impact on shifting focus from divinity to human-centered analysis and how these ideas influenced political thinkers like Machiavelli and Hobbes. The course aims to use philosophy to understand social science thoughts and their role in shaping public policy.

What is the primary aim of the course on Social Sciences foundation of Public Policy?

• To explore the economic foundations of public policy.

• To introduce students to historical and social ideas influencing public policy.

• To focus on the technological advancements in public policy.

• To study the religious influences on public policy.

What major shift in focus occurred during the Age of Enlightenment?

• From science to religion.

• From human-centered analysis to divine focus.

• From divine focus to human-centered analysis.

• From political to economic analysis.

What did the Age of Enlightenment introduce in terms of knowledge acquisition?

• Knowledge based on divine revelation.

• Knowledge based on political power.

• Knowledge based on experimentation and observation.

• Knowledge based on traditional beliefs.

Which philosophical school insisted that only scientifically validated knowledge is acceptable?

• Humanism

• Utilitarianism

• Positivism

• Socialism

Which of the following is NOT a philosophical thought that influenced social sciences?

• Positivism

• Capitalism

• Humanism

• Utilitarianism

What was Machiavelli's key argument regarding the state and the church?

• The state and the church should be separate.

• The church should control the state.

• The state should control the church.

• The state and the church should merge.

Who was the first political thinker influenced by the Enlightenment period?

• Machiavelli

• Rousseau

• Locke

• Hobbes

Which of the following thinkers is NOT mentioned as a leader in social thought during the Enlightenment?

• Locke

• Rousseau

• Hobbes

• Einstein

What is necessary to understand the works of political thinkers like Hobbes and Machiavelli?

• Knowledge of economic theories.

• Familiarity with religious doctrines.

• Expertise in scientific experiments.

• Understanding of philosophical thoughts like positivism and humanism.

What is the relationship between philosophical thoughts and public policy formation?

• Public policy is only influenced by religious beliefs.

• Philosophical thoughts have no impact on public policy.

• Public policy is solely based on economic factors.

• Public policy derives its explanation from philosophical thoughts.