Final answer:
Neo-idealist social science merges idealistic concepts with empirical observation and scientific analysis to understand social phenomena. It considers both material factors and ideas, values, and norms in shaping societies and individuals.
Step-by-step explanation:
The basic idea behind neo-idealist social science is to merge idealistic concepts with empirical observation and scientific analysis. Neo-idealist social scientists believe that social phenomena and human behavior can be understood by considering not only material factors but also ideas, values, and norms. They argue that individuals and societies are shaped by both objective realities and subjective interpretations.
For example, a neo-idealist social scientist might analyze the formation of social movements by studying not only economic conditions and political structures but also the ideas and values that motivate individuals to join these movements. They would argue that social change is not purely determined by material factors, but also by the collective consciousness and shared beliefs of a society.
Neo-idealist social science aims to provide a holistic understanding of social phenomena by integrating philosophical and sociological perspectives. It emphasizes the importance of ideas, values, and norms in shaping societies and individuals.