Philosophy as a discipline has a number of different branches that must be understood both in general and by a person who seeks to know more about social science. With this in mind, the four primary branches are logic, epistemology, metaphysics, and axiology. Those that apply most closely to social sciences are axiology and metaphysics.
Logic is the branch of philosophy that primarily concerns itself with big questions over the rules of knowing. It takes a look at the various ways in which rational thought can take place, seeking to govern its usage to ensure that its results are reliable.
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"Branches of Philosophy".
Epistemology concerns itself with the ways of knowing. How can we know things? What is knowledge, and how are the brain and mind connected? While this is used to some extent by all people who are involved in the study of social sciences, epistemology is a bit more niche and specialized. Its focus on the ways of knowing makes it more detached and a less practical way of viewing the world.
Metaphysics concerns itself generally with the nature of different things, how they can exist, and the like. For instance, one of its central questions may be a focus on the nature of man and his free will. How does man make the decisions he does? This is important because it can lead to an understanding of the different problems that human beings face in society, and how those problems can be solved either with human action or without it.
Axiology is the study of the value of things. It takes a hard look at social and political philosophy first and foremost. In so doing, it provides an important means through which one in social science can analyze the value of various social movements and fixes. It also concerns itself with the study of various forms of art and expression, which are important to human happiness.
