JODHPUR AIIMS SNO-2018
Applied Sociology
Easy

"Man is a social animal"-Who said so?

Appeared in: JODHPUR AIIMS SNO-2018

Explanation

  • The statement "Man is by nature a social animal" is a central tenet of the political and ethical philosophy of Aristotle.
  • This phrase signifies that humans are naturally inclined to live in communities and that they can only achieve a virtuous and happy life (eudaimonia) through social interaction and participation in the life of the state or 'polis'.
  • Aristotle believed that the individual is an intrinsic part of society, and separating an individual from society is like removing a limb from a body; neither can survive alone (SRC_17990).

Why Other Options Were Wrong

  • Option A: Karl Marx's philosophy focused on economics and class conflict. He argued that the structure of society is determined by its economic base and the struggle between the bourgeoisie (owners) and the proletariat (workers).
  • Option C: Plato, who was Aristotle's teacher, had different ideas. His philosophy centered on the 'Theory of Forms,' which posits that the physical world is not as real or true as the timeless, absolute, unchangeable ideas ('Forms'). He described an ideal society ruled by philosopher-kings (SRC_17991).
  • Option D: Auguste Comte is known as the 'father of sociology.' His main contributions are the philosophy of Positivism and the Law of Three Stages, which describes how societies progress through theological, metaphysical, and positive (scientific) stages.

Related Visual

Visual explanation — Related Visual
Clinical Relevance
  • Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Attribution of a famous philosophical quote relevant to sociology as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
  • This concept is the foundation of holistic nursing, which recognizes that a patient's social environment, including family and community support, is crucial for their recovery and mental health.
  • Nurses use this understanding to perform psychosocial assessments and involve a patient's support system in care planning and patient education.
  • What if? A patient is identified as being socially isolated with no family or friends. The nurse's priority would shift to include connecting the patient with a social worker, exploring community resources or support groups, and being extra vigilant for signs of depression or anxiety.
How to Approach the Question
  • This is a factual recall question from the field of sociology and philosophy.
  • First, identify the core phrase in the question: "Man is a social animal."
  • Next, review the names of the philosophers provided in the options.
  • Systematically recall or deduce the primary theory associated with each philosopher. Aristotle is linked to ethics and politics focusing on community life. Marx is linked to economics and class struggle. Plato is linked to ideal forms. Comte is the founder of sociology.
  • Match the quote to the philosopher whose work most closely aligns with the concept of humans' innate need for society. This directly points to Aristotle.
Concept Tested & Keywords
  • Concept Tested: Attribution of a famous philosophical quote relevant to sociology.
  • Stem keywords: Man is a social animal, Who said so
  • Lead-in keywords: Who said so

Question ID

QeLcK66qpyfEBx2Lkn1YB6

Reference Book

E6 Applied Sociology for Nurses TK Indrani p. 48-50

E6 Robert Boland, Marcia L. Verduin - Kaplan and Sadock's Comprehensive Text of Psychiatry-Wolters Kluwer Health (2024) (pp 1-16525 of 16525) p. 3159-3161

Practise the full JODHPUR AIIMS SNO-2018

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.