Social Development

Subjects of Social Development

The term "subject of social development" is a specific concept derived from the broader notion of "subject" (from Latin subjectus — one that lies beneath, is foundational, originating from sub meaning under and jaco meaning I throw, placing foundational bases). The specific concept in question aligns closely with the general idea and encompasses the essential characteristics that define any subject. It refers to an actively engaged and knowing individual or group endowed with consciousness and will. However, the subject of social development possesses its own specificity related to the nature of its activities.

In examining the fundamental concepts of social philosophy, activity is presented as a social form of the movement of matter, thus signifying the overall changes experienced by social matter and social formations. Among the vast array of forms and types of activity, purposeful activity occupies a distinct position, setting apart the subject of social development. Consequently, the "subject of social development" refers to an individual or social group endowed with consciousness and will that engages in purposeful activity.

The subject of social development always possesses a concrete character. This is manifested, first, in its role as either a specific individual acting with awareness and intention, responsible for its actions, or as a concrete supra-personal social formation, provided that its constituents share common interests, goals, and actions, thus representing a certain unity. The specificity of the subject of social development is also evident in the fact that its practical activities or cognition are directed towards a concrete social object.

The objects of the activities of subjects of social development are social problems, which are questions arising objectively from the needs that emerge during the process of social development, and whose resolution holds practical or theoretical interest for the respective social organism (be it an individual, a social group, or society as a whole).

Is it possible to assert that every person is a subject of social development? Certainly not. It can only be an individual who perceives the world and their place within it, who consciously and purposefully engages in addressing social problems and takes responsibility for their actions. A subject of social development can also be a social scientist who objectively analyzes social reality, bravely exposes pressing social issues, and proposes well-founded solutions, as well as a political figure or statesman.

Since we are discussing social creativity and its role in the process of social development, it would be a mistake to interpret the concept of the subject of social development solely in individual-personal terms. Subjects of social development can also take on a supra-personal, collective-group character. Nevertheless, it is essential to remember that “the concept of the subject, when applied to any supra-personal social formation, such as a social group, acquires a somewhat different meaning. A group can be a subject only if it has shared interests, goals, and actions, that is, if it represents a certain unity.”

Primarily, these are classes.

When discussing the subjects of social development, it is important to note that social communities, such as ethnic groups and nations, may also serve as subjects when they develop self-awareness and unite in pursuit of a common goal. However, their influence on the course of social development significantly depends on the support of the fundamental classes of society, which is only possible if such support aligns with their interests.

Specific societies may also act as subjects of social development, provided that their citizens share common interests in addressing emerging social issues. An example of this is the Soviet society, where virtually all classes and other social groups, along with the vast majority of citizens, were united by the need to defend the homeland against fascist aggression, followed by the need to restore the war-damaged economy, perceived as a national interest uniting the entire society.

It is worth noting that contemporary Ukrainian society also faces numerous significant social problems, the resolution of which is crucial for the further development of Ukraine as a democratic, rule-of-law, socially oriented state. Here, it seems imperative to seek a common interest that would foster the unification of our society, transforming it into a social subject capable of effectively reshaping social reality for the benefit of all.

The existence of global problems—critical and urgent issues facing humanity as a whole in the modern era—necessitates the formation of a universal human interest in their resolution, alongside the transformation of humanity into a social subject. However, to actualize this potential, humanity will undoubtedly have to navigate a complex and challenging path.