Social telesis is

Appeared in: RUHS, Jaipur, M.Sc Nursing Entrance Exam-2022

Explanation

Social telesis refers to the conscious and purposeful direction of social progress by society.
It involves the intelligent application of knowledge about natural and social forces to achieve desired goals and improve the human condition.
This concept was introduced by sociologist Lester F. Ward to describe how humanity can actively shape its own evolution, contrasting it with unplanned, natural social change (social genesis).

Option B: Interpreting social problems is only the analysis phase. Social telesis is the active phase of applying forces to create change based on that analysis.
Option C: A 'comprehensive approach' is a general term describing the thoroughness of a method. It is not the specific definition of social telesis.
Option D: An 'interdisciplinary approach' is a method that involves multiple academic disciplines. While this approach is often essential for effective social telesis, it is the method, not the concept itself.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Definition of Social Telesis in Sociology as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
This concept is foundational to social planning and public policy, where governments and organizations create programs to address issues like poverty, public health, and education.
It underscores the belief that societal problems are not inevitable and can be solved through collective, intelligent action and evidence-based interventions.
In a healthcare context, nationwide public health campaigns (e.g., for vaccination, smoking cessation, or sanitation) are prime examples of social telesis, using social and psychological forces to improve population health outcomes.

How to Approach the Question

Identify the key term in the question stem: 'Social telesis'.
Recognize this as a definition-based question from the field of sociology.
Access your knowledge of foundational sociological concepts. The root 'tele' (from Greek 'telos' meaning 'end' or 'purpose') hints at a goal-oriented process.
Evaluate each option against this understanding. Option A describes the active use of forces to achieve a purpose, which aligns with the definition.
Options B, C, and D describe related but distinct ideas: 'interpreting problems' is a preliminary step, while 'comprehensive' and 'interdisciplinary' describe methods, not the core concept.
Conclude that the 'use of natural and social forces' to direct society is the most accurate and fundamental definition of social telesis.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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