This chapter introduces Social Science as the study of people, society, institutions, places, resources and choices. It explains how History, Geography, Political Science and Economics help us understand everyday life.
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Introduction
Social Science is the systematic study of human society. It helps us understand how people live together, how societies change, how governments work, how economies function, and how the environment affects human life. Human beings do not live alone. We depend on one another for food, shelter, transport, education, safety, trade, and many other needs. Our life is shaped by many factors such as:
- environment
- government and laws
- economic activities
- traditions and culture
- historical events
- social institutions
Social Science connects all these aspects and helps us understand society as a whole.
Important Point
Natural sciences like Physics, Chemistry, and Biology study the natural world, while Social Science studies human society, culture, institutions, and human relationships.
Social Science in Everyday Life
Social Science is present in our daily life. For example: The house we live in uses materials from different places. The food we eat reaches us through farming, transport, markets, and trade. Roads are built and maintained by public authorities. Schools work according to educational policies. Electricity comes from power stations through a wide network.
This shows that even simple daily activities depend on:
- governance
- economy
- social cooperation
- natural resources
- technology
- transport and communication
Social Science helps us ask questions such as:
- Why do some people live in cities and others in villages?
- Why do different communities speak different languages?
- Why do some regions depend on farming while others depend on industry?
- How do governments make decisions?
- Why are some areas more prone to floods?
- How does climate change affect our lives?
Key Idea
Society does not function by chance. It is shaped by history, geography, institutions, resources, and human choices.
Understanding Society through Time and Traditions
Society has changed greatly over thousands of years. Early humans depended directly on nature. Slowly, they learnt to:
- grow crops
- domesticate animals
- make tools
- build settlements
- exchange goods
- form systems of governance
Villages became towns, and towns became cities. New ideas, inventions, and cultural exchanges changed people’s ways of life.
India has a long tradition of questioning, discussion, observation, and reasoning. Ancient Indian ideas also tried to understand the relationship between humans, society, and nature.
Pañchamahābhūtas
The idea of Pañchamahābhūtas means that the natural world is made of five elements:
- 1. Earth
- Pṛithvī
- 2. Water
- Āpaḥ
- 3. Fire
- Agni
- 4. Air
- Vāyu
- 5. Space
- Ākāśha
This idea shows that human life is connected with nature. It helps us understand settlement patterns, occupations, food habits, architecture, and health practices.
Vasudhaiva Kuṭumbakam
The idea of vasudhaiva kuṭumbakam means “the world is one family.” It teaches that all human societies are connected with each other.
Arthaśhāstra
The Arthaśhāstra, attributed to Kauṭilya, discussed administration, taxation, economy, duties of rulers, and public welfare. It shows that systematic thinking about governance and economy existed in India long ago.
Social Science as a Study of Disciplines
Human society is complex. One subject alone cannot explain it fully. Therefore, Social Science includes many related disciplines. In Grades 9–10, Social Science mainly includes four core disciplines: 1. Geography
History
Political Science
Economics
Other related disciplines include Sociology, Philosophy, Anthropology, and Psychology.
Example A drought affects many areas of life:
- crops and environment – Geography
- farmers’ income – Economics
- government relief – Political Science
- migration and society – Sociology
- traditional coping methods – Culture and History
So, Social Science studies society from different viewpoints.
Geography
Geography studies the Earth, its environment, places, people, and the relationship between humans and their surroundings. It helps us understand:
- where things are located
- why they are located there
- how places influence human life
- how humans use and change the environment
- how different regions are connected
Geography studies both physical and human aspects.
Physical Geography
It includes landforms, rivers, mountains, oceans, climate, vegetation, and natural resources.
Human Geography
It includes population, settlements, agriculture, industries, transport, trade, and human activities. Tools Used in Geography Geography uses many tools, such as:
- maps
- globes
- atlases
- GIS
- infographics
- satellite images
- geospatial technologies
The chapter also mentions NCERT’s School Bhuvan portal, which can help students map their own village or city. Topics You Will Study in Grades 9–10
- Earth’s surface and landforms
- atmosphere and climate
- oceans
- biomes
- biosphere reserves
- geospatial technologies
- life in different regions of India and the world
History
History is the study of the human past. It helps us understand how societies changed over time. History teaches us about:
- people’s experiences
- values and traditions
- important events
- changes in society
- cultural memory
- development of civilisation
History is not just memorising dates. It is about understanding how the past shaped the present.
Itihāsa-Purāṇa Tradition
In India, the itihāsa-purāṇa tradition preserved cultural memory through stories. These stories shared historical information and also taught values, ideals, identity, and purpose.
Modern History Writing
Modern historiography uses evidence and scientific methods such as:
- archaeology
- carbon-14 dating
- human genetics
- documents
- inscriptions
- coins
- monuments
Literary Sources
Literary sources are written materials that help us understand the past. Examples:
- manuscripts
- religious texts
- travelogues
- memoirs
- letters
- genealogical records
- folklore
- oral traditions
- revenue records
The chapter shows examples like the Sāmaveda manuscript and a traditional palm-leaf manuscript of the Tirukkuṟal. Importance of Literary Sources They help us know about:
- beliefs
- customs
- language
- administration
- society
- culture
- values of people
Archaeological Sources
Archaeological sources are material remains from the past. Examples:
- monuments
- buildings
- excavated sites
- tools
- pottery
- sculptures
- paintings
- artefacts
The chapter gives examples such as a terracotta figurine from the Sindhu-Sarasvatī Civilisation and a sculpture of Viṣhṇu from the 12th century CE. Importance of Archaeological Sources They help historians understand:
- lifestyle of ancient people
- art and architecture
- technology
- trade
- religious beliefs
- settlement patterns
Epigraphic Sources
Epigraphic sources are inscriptions written on durable materials such as:
- stone
- metal plates
- pillars
- rocks
The chapter shows examples like a Brahmi inscription from the Gupta period and a Kannada inscription of Emperor
Krishnadeva Raya
at Hampi. Importance of Epigraphic Sources They provide direct evidence about:
- rulers
- administration
- society
- laws
- donations
- events
- political power
Numismatic Sources
Numismatic sources are coins, currency, and medals. The chapter gives examples of a coin issued by King Samudragupta and a Mughal coin issued during
Jahangir’s
reign. Importance of Numismatic Sources Coins help historians study:
- economy
- trade
- rulers
- chronology
- political boundaries
- culture
- symbols and inscriptions
- metal use
Political Science
Political Science is the study of governance, power, government, institutions, rights, and responsibilities. It helps us understand:
- how governments function
- how decisions are made
- how power is distributed
- how laws are formed
- how citizens participate in democracy
- how policies are implemented
Panchayati Raj
The chapter gives the example of the Panchayati Raj system, which represents grassroots democracy in India. It gives citizens a voice in local development and decision-making.
Indian Political Thought
In ancient India, politics was connected with:
- dharma – moral duty
- artha – economic well-being
- rājadharma – duties of the ruler
Texts such as the Vedas, Upaniṣads, Purāṇas, Mahābhārata, Śhukranīti, and Arthaśhāstra discussed justice, authority, governance, law, and ethical leadership.
Main Idea
Power was seen not only as a privilege but also as a responsibility for public welfare. Topics You Will Study in Grades 9–10
- democracy
- elections
- authority
- civil society
- governance
- public policy
- national security
Economics
Economics studies how individuals and societies use limited resources to meet their needs. It explains:
- production of goods and services
- exchange and distribution
- markets and prices
- income and employment
- consumer choices
- producer decisions
- government policies
Economics is not only about money and markets. It is also about:
- well-being
- fairness
- justice
- equality
- sustainable development
India’s Economic History
India has a rich economic past. For centuries, India was an important centre of trade, industry, and maritime activity. Colonial rule disrupted India’s economy and caused:
- poverty
- famines
- decline of traditional industries
After independence, India worked to rebuild its economy. In recent decades, India has improved in:
- infrastructure
- education
- technology
- poverty reduction
- life expectancy
However, challenges remain, especially in increasing incomes and ensuring that development benefits all sections of society. Topics You Will Study in Grades 9–10
- Indian economy
- markets and prices
- financial management
- entrepreneurship
- GDP
- international trade
- Union Budget
Why Should We Study Social Science?
Social Science helps us understand the society in which we live. It teaches us how systems around us work, such as:
- housing
- water supply
- roads
- schools
- markets
- digital spaces
- government institutions
It also helps us understand diversity in India. People speak different languages, follow different customs, and practise different occupations. Social Science explains that these differences are shaped by geography, history, culture, and economy. Benefits of Studying Social Science Social Science helps students:
- understand society better
- respect diversity
- develop unity and cooperation
- become responsible citizens
- understand rights and duties
- ask informed questions
- analyse social problems
- think logically and critically
- make wiser choices for the future
Important Idea
Social Science connects the past, present, and future.
The Future of Social Science
The importance of Social Science is increasing because society is changing rapidly. Modern society faces many challenges, such as:
- climate change
- migration
- urbanisation
- new technologies
- environmental problems
- sustainable development
- social harmony
- unequal use of resources
Social Science helps us understand these problems and find better solutions. It also helps us use technology responsibly and adapt to changing conditions.
Main Idea
Social Science prepares students to become informed, thoughtful, and responsible citizens.
Secondary-Stage Social Science: Your Two-Year Learning Journey
In Grades 9 and 10, students will study society deeply through Geography, History, Political Science, and Economics. Students will learn:
- how historical events shaped the modern world
- how geographical features influence human life
- how political systems and democratic institutions work
- how economies organise production and development
- how rights and responsibilities guide citizens
- how technology and global connections affect society
- how environmental sustainability is important
Social Science is not only about memorising dates, maps, and definitions. It is about understanding:
- people
- places
- society
- culture
- power
- economy
- environment
- citizenship
Reference
Important word meanings
- Social Science
- Systematic study of human society
- Society
- Group of people living together with relationships and institutions
- Governance
- Process of making and implementing decisions for society
- Economy
- System of production, exchange, and use of goods and services
- Geography
- Study of Earth, places, environment, and human interaction with nature
- History
- Study of human past
- Political Science
- Study of government, power, rights, and responsibilities
- Economics
- Study of how limited resources are used to meet needs
- Literary Sources
- Written sources used to study history
- Archaeological Sources
- Material remains from the past
- Epigraphic Sources
- Inscriptions on stone, metal, or rocks
- Numismatic Sources
- Coins, currency, and medals used as historical sources
- Empirical Evidence
- Information collected through observation or experiment
- Panchayati Raj
- Local self-government system in villages
- Sustainable Development
- Development that meets present needs without harming future generations
Quick revision
Chapter summary
Chapter 1, Understanding Social Science, introduces students to the
meaning, importance, and scope of Social Science. It explains that Social Science is the systematic study of human society and helps us understand how people, places, institutions, economies, governments, traditions, and environments are connected. The chapter shows that Social Science is present in everyday life, from the food we eat to the roads we use and the schools we attend. It explains that society is shaped by history, geography, resources, institutions, and human choices. The chapter also discusses India’s rich knowledge traditions, including ideas like Pañchamahābhūtas, vasudhaiva kuṭumbakam, and Arthaśhāstra, which show early efforts to understand nature, society, governance, and economy.
Social Science is presented as a group of disciplines: Geography, History,
Political Science, and Economics. Geography studies the Earth and
human-environment relationships. History studies the past using literary, archaeological, epigraphic, and numismatic sources. Political Science
studies government, power, democracy, and citizens’ rights and responsibilities. Economics studies production, distribution, resources, markets, and development. The chapter explains why Social Science is important. It helps students understand diversity, respect different communities, participate in democracy, analyse social problems, and become responsible citizens. Finally, it highlights that Social Science will help students understand the past, analyse the present, and imagine a better future.
Textbook activities
Think About It and Let's Explore – answers
LET’S ANALYSE – Page 2
Q1What was the situation earlier?
Earlier, transport facilities in my locality were not very good. The roads were narrow and damaged in some places. Public transport was limited, so people had to depend mostly on private vehicles, autos, or long walks to reach the main road or market. During office and school hours, traffic jams were common. Streetlights and proper footpaths were also missing in some areas, which made travel difficult, especially at night.
Q2What has changed?
In the last five years, many improvements have taken place. Roads have been repaired or widened. More public transport options, such as buses, e-rickshaws, autos, and app-based transport services, are now available. Streetlights have improved, and some areas have better footpaths. People can now travel more easily to schools, markets, hospitals, offices, and metro or bus stations.
Q3What might have caused this change?
This change may have been caused by several factors: Population in the locality increased, so better transport became necessary. The government and local authorities improved roads and public facilities. New shops, schools, offices, and residential buildings also increased the need for better connectivity. Technology, such as online maps and app-based transport, also made travel easier.
Q4How has it affected people’s lives?
This change has affected people’s lives in many positive ways. Students can reach school on time. Office workers save time while travelling. Markets and shops have received more customers. People can reach hospitals and other important places more quickly. Better streetlights have also made people feel safer at night.
However, there are some problems too. More vehicles have increased noise and air pollution. In some places, traffic congestion still happens during busy hours. Construction work also caused temporary inconvenience to people.
Short Report
Report on Change in My Locality
Title: Improvement in Transport Facilities in My Locality
In the last five years, my locality has seen an important change in transport and road facilities. Earlier, roads were narrow and damaged, and public transport was limited. People faced difficulty in travelling to schools, markets, offices, and hospitals. Traffic jams were common during morning and evening hours. Now, the situation has improved. Roads have been repaired and widened in many places. Public transport has become more easily available. E-rickshaws, autos, buses, and app-based transport services have made travel more convenient. Streetlights and footpaths have also improved in some areas. The main causes of this change are population growth, development of new residential and commercial areas, and efforts by the government and local authorities. As more people started living and working in the area, the demand for better transport increased.
This change has made people’s lives easier. Students and workers can travel faster. Shops and markets have become more active. People can reach hospitals and other services quickly. At the same time, increased vehicles have also created problems like traffic, noise, and pollution. Thus, this example shows how one change in transport is connected with geography, government, economy, technology, and people’s daily lives. It helps us understand that society is made up of many connected systems.
Conclusion
The improvement in transport facilities shows that changes in our locality do not happen by chance. They are caused by population growth, government planning, technology, and people’s needs. Such changes affect the daily life of everyone in society.
Self-check
MCQs with answers and explanations
1What is Social Science mainly concerned with? A. Study of plants and animals
- Study of plants and animals
- Study of human society
- Study of planets
- Study of machines
Explanation: Social Science is the systematic study of human society, institutions, culture, economy, governance, and human interactions.
2Which of the following is not a core discipline of Social Science in Grades 9–10? A. Geography
- Geography
- History
- Political Science
- Chemistry
Explanation: The four main disciplines of Social Science in Grades 9–10 are Geography, History, Political Science, and Economics.
3Social Science helps us understand society through: A. Observation, evidence, and reasoning
- Observation, evidence, and reasoning
- Guesswork and imagination only
- Magic and beliefs only
- Memorising formulas only
Explanation: Social Science explains society by observing events, collecting evidence, asking questions, and using logical reasoning.
4Which subject studies the Earth, environment, and relationship between people and surroundings? A. History
- History
- Geography
- Economics
- Political Science
Explanation: Geography studies the Earth, physical features, environment, places, people, and human-environment relationships.
5Which discipline studies the human past? A. Economics
- Economics
- Political Science
- History
- Geography
Explanation: History studies past events, people’s experiences, cultural values, and changes in society over time.
6Which discipline studies governance, power, rights, and responsibilities? A. Political Science
- Political Science
- Geography
- History
- Economics
Explanation: Political Science studies governments, constitutions, power, decision-making, rights, duties, and public policies.
7Which discipline studies production, distribution, exchange, and use of resources? A. Geography
- Geography
- Economics
- History
- Sociology
Explanation: Economics explains how individuals and societies use limited resources to meet their needs.
8Why do we study Social Science? A. To only memorise dates
- To only memorise dates
- To only draw maps
- To understand society and become responsible citizens
- To avoid studying other subjects
Explanation: Social Science helps us understand society, diversity, democracy, economy, environment, and our role as citizens.
9Which of the following is an example of a daily-life connection with Social Science? A. Food reaching our plate through farming and transport
- Food reaching our plate through farming and transport
- A stone falling from a height
- A chemical reaction in a lab
- Growth of a plant cell
Explanation: Food production and transport involve farmers, markets, workers, roads, trade, economy, and governance.
10Society is shaped by: A. History, geography, institutions, resources, and human choices
- History, geography, institutions, resources, and human choices
- Only machines
- Only weather
- Only individual wishes
Explanation: Social Science shows that society is formed by many connected factors, not by chance.
11What does the idea of Pañchamahābhūtas refer to? A. Five oceans
- Five oceans
- Five great elements
- Five kings
- Five cities
Explanation: Pañchamahābhūtas refers to earth, water, fire, air, and space. It shows the connection between nature and human life.
12What does “vasudhaiva kuṭumbakam” mean? A. Knowledge is power
- Knowledge is power
- The world is one family
- Truth alone wins
- Work is worship
Explanation: This Indian idea expresses the interconnectedness of human societies across regions and cultures.
13The Arthaśhāstra is attributed to: A. Kalidasa
- Kalidasa
- Kauṭilya
- Ashoka
- Samudragupta
Explanation: The Arthaśhāstra, attributed to Kauṭilya, discusses administration, economy, taxation, and duties of rulers.
14A drought affects crops, farmers’ income, government relief, and migration. This shows that: A. Society has only one problem
- Society has only one problem
- Social Science disciplines are interconnected
- Geography is not useful
- Economics is separate from society
Explanation: A drought involves geography, economics, political science, society, and culture together.
15Which tool is used in Geography? A. Microscope only
- Microscope only
- Map
- Telescope only
- Test tube only
Explanation: Geography uses maps, globes, atlases, GIS, satellite images, and infographics.
16GIS stands for: A. General Indian System
- General Indian System
- Geographical Information System
- Government Information Service
- Global Indian Survey
Explanation: GIS is a tool used to collect, analyse, and present geographical information.
17Literary sources include: A. Coins
- Coins
- Manuscripts and travelogues
- Stone tools only
- Fossils only
Explanation: Literary sources are written or oral materials like manuscripts, travelogues, memoirs, letters, and records.
18Archaeological sources include: A. Monuments and artefacts
- Monuments and artefacts
- Only poems
- Only songs
- Only government policies
Explanation: Archaeological sources are material remains such as monuments, buildings, excavated sites, sculptures, tools, and pottery.
19Epigraphic sources are mainly: A. Coins
- Coins
- Inscriptions on stone, metal, or rocks
- Oral stories only
- Printed newspapers only
Explanation: Epigraphic sources are inscriptions written on durable materials and provide direct evidence about the past.
20Numismatic sources are related to: A. Coins, currency, and medals
- Coins, currency, and medals
- Forests and rivers
- Buildings and roads
- Songs and poems
Explanation: Numismatic sources help historians study economy, trade, rulers, chronology, symbols, and political boundaries.
21Which of these can help historians establish timelines? A. Carbon-14 dating
- Carbon-14 dating
- Cooking
- Painting walls
- Playing games
Explanation: Carbon-14 dating is a scientific method used to determine the age of ancient remains.
22Panchayati Raj is an example of: A. Grassroots democracy
- Grassroots democracy
- Foreign rule
- Colonial economy
- Ancient trade
Explanation: Panchayati Raj gives people a voice in local development and decision-making at the village level.
23In Indian political thought, power was viewed as: A. Only a privilege
- Only a privilege
- A responsibility for public welfare
- A private business
- A military activity only
Explanation: Ancient Indian political ideas connected power with duty, morality, governance, and welfare of the people.
24Economics studies the use of: A. Unlimited resources only
- Unlimited resources only
- Limited resources to meet needs
- Only ancient monuments
- Only climate
Explanation: Economics explains how people and societies use limited resources wisely and fairly.
25Which of the following is a goal of economic development? A. Wasting resources
- Wasting resources
- Sustainable growth
- Increasing poverty
- Stopping education
Explanation: Economic development should meet present needs while protecting resources for future generations.
26Colonial rule affected India’s economy by: A. Strengthening all traditional industries
- Strengthening all traditional industries
- Causing poverty, famines, and decline of traditional industries
- Removing all economic problems
- Ending agriculture
Explanation: The chapter explains that colonial rule disrupted India’s economic progress and harmed traditional industries.
27Social Science helps us understand diversity because: A. It explains differences in language, customs, and occupations
- It explains differences in language, customs, and occupations
- It removes all cultures
- It studies only one community
- It ignores history
Explanation: Diversity is shaped by geography, history, culture, economy, and social conditions.
28The future of Social Science is important because societies face issues like: A. Climate change and sustainable development
- Climate change and sustainable development
- Only sports competitions
- Only grammar problems
- Only mathematical puzzles
Explanation: Social Science helps societies understand and address modern challenges like climate change, migration, technology, and resource use.
29Social Science connects: A. Past, present, and future
- Past, present, and future
- Only past events
- Only present markets
- Only future technology
Explanation: It helps us understand how past decisions shaped the present and how present actions affect the future.
30Social Science is not about merely memorising: A. People, places, society, and culture
- People, places, society, and culture
- Dates, maps, and definitions
- Rights and responsibilities
- Evidence and reasoning
Explanation: Social Science is about understanding society, people, places, power, culture, economy, and responsible citizenship.
Additional practice
Extra question answers
Q1What is Social Science?
Social Science is the systematic study of human society. It studies how people live together, how governments function, how economies work, how cultures develop, and how the environment affects human life.
Q2How is Social Science different from Natural Science?
Natural Science studies the natural world, such as plants, animals, matter, energy, and physical processes. Social Science studies human society, institutions, culture, economy, governance, and human relationships.
Q3How is Social Science useful in everyday life?
Social Science helps us understand daily-life systems such as food supply, transport, markets, schools, electricity, roads, laws, and government services. It shows how our daily activities depend on many people, institutions, and resources.
Q4Why does society not function by chance?
Society does not function by chance because it is shaped by history, geography, institutions, resources, traditions, economic activities, government policies, and human choices.
Q5What does “understanding society through time and traditions” mean?
It means studying how society has changed over time and how traditions, ideas, values, and cultural practices have influenced human life. It helps us understand continuity and change in society.
Q6What are Pañchamahābhūtas?
Pañchamahābhūtas are the five great elements mentioned in Indian knowledge traditions. They are earth, water, fire, air, and space. This idea shows that nature and human life are interconnected.
Q7What is the meaning of vasudhaiva kuṭumbakam?
Vasudhaiva kuṭumbakam means “the world is one family.” It expresses the idea that all human beings and societies are connected with each other.
Q8Why is the Arthaśhāstra important?
The Arthaśhāstra is important because it discussed administration, taxation, economic management, duties of rulers, public welfare, and governance. It shows that systematic thinking about politics and economy existed in ancient India.
Q9Why is Social Science divided into different disciplines?
Human society is complex, and one subject cannot explain it completely. Therefore, Social Science is divided into disciplines like
Geography, History, Political Science, and Economics. Each discipline
studies a different aspect of society.
Q10What does Geography study?
Geography studies the Earth, its physical features, environment, places, people, and the relationship between human beings and their surroundings.
Q11What tools are used in Geography?
Geography uses maps, globes, atlases, GIS, satellite images, infographics, and geospatial technologies to study places, locations, and environmental patterns.
Q12What does History study?
History studies the human past. It helps us understand past events, people’s experiences, cultural values, social changes, and how the past has shaped the present.
Q13What are literary sources?
Literary sources are written or oral materials that help us study the past. Examples include manuscripts, travelogues, memoirs, letters, genealogical records, folklore, oral traditions, and revenue documents.
Q14What are archaeological sources?
Archaeological sources are material remains of the past. Examples include monuments, buildings, excavated sites, tools, pottery, sculptures, paintings, and other artefacts.
Q15What are epigraphic sources?
Epigraphic sources are inscriptions written on durable materials such as stone, metal plates, pillars, and rock surfaces. They provide information about rulers, administration, society, and historical events.
Q16What are numismatic sources?
Numismatic sources are coins, currency, and medals. They help historians study rulers, trade, economy, political boundaries, chronology, culture, symbols, and inscriptions.
Q17What does Political Science study?
Political Science studies governance, power, constitutions, governments, institutions, rights, responsibilities, democracy, public policy, and how decisions are made and implemented.
Q18Why is Panchayati Raj important?
Panchayati Raj is important because it represents grassroots democracy. It allows people in villages to participate in local governance and development planning.
Q19What does Economics study?
Economics studies how individuals and societies use limited resources to meet their needs. It studies production, exchange, distribution, markets, prices, income, employment, and government policies.
Q20Why should students study Social Science?
Students should study Social Science because it helps them understand society, respect diversity, participate responsibly in democracy, analyse problems, ask informed questions, and become thoughtful citizens of India and the world.