Summary of content

As the title suggests, this module has two broad aims: (i) to introduce GSBS students to the principles, ideas and value of the social sciences and (ii) to demonstrate how social science perspectives are fundamental to understanding in business and professional studies.



The module is structured around three blocks, each of which comprises one lecture for six core themes (economy, people, problems, power, places and environment).

(A) Key issues in business and society

(B) Global Social Science

(C) Local Social Science



Although tailored to the needs of non-social science students in GSBS, the module shares a core programme of learning with a complementary module (Social Science: An Interdisciplinary Introduction), which is presented to GSBS students who are pursuing a social science degree. Deviations permit specialist study, with business students examining the relevance of social science for business studies (achieved through a bespoke class programme and a focus in the lecture programme on 'key issues in business and society').



This module provides all (non BA Social Sciences) first year GSBS students with an introductory multidisciplinary analysis of the challenges facing contemporary societies, and helps them to think creatively about responses to these. In particular, it encourages students to think about the specific contributions that can be made by those working within their future profession. This module will capitalise on the combined strengths of the Department of Social Science to offer a learning experience that contributes to one of the core aims of the School - to add social and economic value through both multi- and inter- disciplinary teaching. The ultimate outcome (of a GSBS degree, to which this module would contribute) is to produce graduates who can act as responsible citizens and managers with a broad and deep understanding of the complexity of contemporary societal challenges.



The module will start to develop attributes which all GSBS graduates should possess, including an international perspective and awareness of global issues the ability to think holistically (e.g. to consider business and management issues from a range of perspectives) being digitally aware the ability to work collaboratively the ability to manage workload effectively (time management skills) and the capacity to think independently with a critical and questioning perspective.



Although providing a comprehensive introduction to the value of the social sciences, the opportunity will be taken throughout to demonstrate the importance of this knowledge to practice and understanding in the professions and business studies.

Module structure

Assessment methods