DIFFERENT
PERSPECTIVES
ON COMMUNITY
1. The Social Science Perspective
2. Civil Society Perspective
3. Local and Grassroots Perspectives
4. Institutional Perspective
The Social Science Perspective
“Social Science” is an umbrella term for various
fields of study which examines social relations and
human society. It views the community as composed
of people interacting with one another, sensitive to
each other’s emotions and subjective point of view.
Basically, it describes “community as a group of
people in a particular area interacting together.”
The following are disciplines in social
sciences that related to the idea of
community:
Anthropology - this field examines the
various aspects of humans, such as their
biology, behavior, culture and social
interactions. It may also study how people
adapt their ways of living to different
environments, determining ways to help a
community solve health related concerns.
Economics - Thisfield studies the production,
allocation and consumption of goods
and services. In any community, one finds
various forms of wealth distribution. The
ultimate goal of economics is to improve
the lives of people, such that their needs
are satisfied.
Political Science - The field
encompasses the various ways and
means of allocating power, influence,
decision-making. This includes types of
governments and management
systems, and how people in small bands
or informal groups make decisions when
they do not have recognized leaders .
Psychology - This discipline studies
the human mind, brain, and social
behavior. This extends to interaction
between people and interpersonal
relationships. Psychology in general is
most often associated with the study,
diagnosis and treatment of mental
illnesses.
Sociology - This field is the study of society, social
order, social interactions, and culture. It introduces the
concepts of social capital and communitarianism. Social
capital is defined as the networks of relationship among
people who live and work in a particular society for the
effective functioning of the community.
Communitarianism explains the connection between
the individual and the community.
Every person has a special role in one’s society, and it’s
part of human nature to relate with other people in
various conditions or situations.
Civil Society Perspective
This perspective views society as a community of citizens linked
by common interests and collective activity. Examples include
people’s organization, civic organization, and social movements.
This is considered the affective model of community since a
sense of belonging is achieved due to the collaboration of shared
interests and identities in serving the humanity. Groups of people
come together regardless of location, and organize plans to
render support and assistance to society.
Some examples of civic organizations
in the Philippines are ABS CBN
Foundation, Ayala Red Cross
Foundation, Boy and Girl Scouts of the
Philippines and Caritas Manila. The
human right movement, on the other
hand, is an example of social
movement.
Local and Grassroots Perspectives
This perspective highlights volunteerism. Members of
communities may involve themselves in various
programs or activities.
Volunteers are mobilized in cooperation with government
decision-makers who will be accountable for their actions.
The community also formulates programs for others, and
employs actions according to the needs of the
community.
A concrete example of this is when doctors
and dentists in different communities come
together to organize medical and dental
missions especially for families affected by
calamities. The youth who are full of spirit
and energy are often excited to engage
themselves in outdoor activities. experience
for them.
Institutional Perspective
The institutional perspective views the community in
three different dimensions.
It is an existing establishment or
FIRST FIRST physical space where members of
DIMENSION
DIMENSIO the community go for a certain
purpose.
It is the institutional community as a social model.
This is defined by networks and institutions where
SECOND
community group are formed in certain areas such
DIMENSION
as schools, churches or companies.
Community is composed of the ways
THIRD people act,
DIMENSION interact with each other, react, and expect
each other to act and interact.
"Community Perspectives
Collage”
To create a community perspective collage, begin by
brainstorming a theme or idea related to your
community, then gather images and materials that
represent this theme. Arrange your chosen elements
on a backing material, ensuring a balanced
composition, and secure them with glue. Consider
adding textures or embellishments for visual interest,
and allow the collage to dry completely.
