A SUMMARY OF THE SOCIAL STUDIES SYLLABUS
TOPIC: INDIVIDUAL AND FAMILY
Definition of terms used in family
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Family- is seen as a group or social arrangement in which individuals who are
specifically related by blood, marriage, adoption or some other factor, grouped
together and tend to share a domestic unit ( house)
Monogamy- marriage of one man to one woman
Polygamy- marriage between more than one person
Polygyny- one man having two or more wives
Polyandry-one woman having two or more husbands
Patrilocal- the couple takes up residence with the husband’s parents
Matrilocal- couple takes up residence with the wife parents
Neolocal- when a couple establishes their own residence
Matrilineal-the privileges and duties follows the female line
Patrilineal- the privileges and duties follow the male line
Matriarchal-female has dominant authority she is head of the house hold
Patriarchal-male has dominant authority he is head of the house hold
Patrifocal- family patterns where the father has responsibility
Matrifocal- family patterns where the mother has responsibility
Marriage-a legal union between twp persons a man and a woman
Endogamy- if a person chooses a partner from within their own enthnic group,
tribe, religion or class
Exogamy- if the partner is chosen from outside these groups
Divorce- an legal end or dissolution of a legally contracted marriage
Legal separation- husband and wife live apart for a specific period as ordered by
a court of law
Annulment-is a declaration by a religious leader or church that a marriage is
invalid
Alimony-maintenance or allowance due to a woman or man from the either
partner after divorce or legal separation
Kinship- family relationship
Status-a social position or rank
Functions of the family in contemporary Caribbean society
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As a unit of procreation- reproducing children
As a social unit for rearing children- how children are socialized (how they are
brought up)
As an economic/financial unit for satisfying basic needs
As a social unit for satisfying emotional and psychological needs(love, care,
attention etc)
Cultural- passing on traditions
Types of family
Nuclear - mother father children
Extended - grandmother, grand father, mother father children uncle, aunt,cousin
(whole generation)
Sibling-household - brother/sister looking after younger bother sister (absence of
parents)
Single parent - mother and children/child father and children/child (one Parent)
Reconstituted family- formed from former families (step parents, step
brothers/sisters)
Types of unions
Marriage – a legal union between a man and a woman.
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Visiting relationship- the man and woman lives in their own homes(separate) but
are involved sexually and children may result
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Common law(consensual ) union-a man and a woman living together in mutual
agreement based on love without entering into a legal or formal marriage
Roles and responsibilities of members in the family
GRANDPARENTS - assist parents in the up bringing of the children, contribute to
social emotional and economic development of the child, assist in solving marital
problems, babysit in absence of parents and pass on traditions of the family.
PARENTS –provide the basic economic needs of the children, socialize the children to
conform to the values and attitudes of society, providing emotional security
(encouragement, solve problems etc), communicate and share ideas with children, pass
on tradition.
CHILDREN- assist parents in the running of the home, respectful to themselves and
others.
Family patterns in the Caribbean
Our family structure is governed to some extent by the influences of our Africans, Asians
Europeans and Amerindians ancestors. Some of the patterns include:
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Under the system of slavery, African men and women were not allowed to be
legally married. I am sure you have heard of all the hardships endured by Africans
under this cruel, inhumane system. All their rights were taken away and they were
forced to abide by the injustices of the Europeans who “owned” them. Marriage
was another right the Africans could not have. As a result, African men and
women faced two choices: they either lived together and had children without
being legally married, or men merely visited the woman on occasion over a period
of time.(hence common law union)
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The Amerindians believed that newly weds should not have sexual relation until
after three days. Going against this was a sin. The reason for this is that they have
received the body of Jesus Christ to whom respect is due.
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The Europeans customs demanded that dating courtship and marriage precedes
the establishment of a family. Only when an engagement was announced were the
couple allowed some freedom in their relationship. Marriage partners were chosen
for love. Marriage usually leads to children. Marriage was viewed as a contract
with strict definition of masculine and feminine roles. The man was the bread
winner and the woman looked after the house and children. they were Christians
believing in monogamous marriages and church ceremonies( baptism, wedding
and funeral) associated with birth, marriage and death
Factors which contribute to the changing roles of members of the Caribbean
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Status of women in society- women are holding high positions in society as they
have achieved their ambitions and are playing leading roles in their chosen field.
Women have managed to show their leadership qualities by reaching the top in
many professions.
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Choice of employment- more and more women today have paid jobs. They can
be found working alongside men in both professional jobs and non- traditional
jobs having equal pay for work of equal value. Hence they are involved in the
sharing of financial and economic needs.
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Educational opportunity- this is available to men and women equally.
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Available technology- as a result of advancement in technology a number of
devices have been developed to aid in the execution of duties within the home.
Examples of these include: dishwasher, washing machines etc. Hence the time a
woman used to spend carrying out traditional work in the home such as washing,
coking cleaning has been reduced. Therefore women have more time to seek
employment, educational opportunity and spend more time with the family.
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Leisure activities- in the Caribbean men and women share equal access to leisure
activities. As a result of this some women spend less time at home than they did
in the past.
Results of the changing role of members in the family
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Identity crisis- our sense of identity is largely gained from the roles we have
within different situation, but especially within the family. Having the status of
mother or father forms part of their identity, and as such they have specific roles
within the family where the mother is the care giver and the father the
breadwinner/ provider. If a man’s understanding of his male identity is as the
provider and head of the household then his identity might be threatened when his
wife is also earning an income and sharing household decision making. So too of
the mother when she seeks full time employment; it clashes with her identity as a
mother especially if she has to place her children in someone else’s care while she
is at work.
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Role conflict- this is usually applied to the situation where he ability to perform
one role is hindered by the need to perform another role at the same time. For
example, a father will find his caring for his family role in conflict with his role as
a breadwinner if he has to move away in order to find work. Similarly, a working
mother might find it difficult if her husband still regards housework and raising
children as a mainly female role.
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Independence – women are becoming independent in that they are working to
provide for themselves and families. Greater recognition of women rights have
led to more educational and job opportunities being available to them hence
greater independence of woman
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Development of self esteem and confidence of women- because women are now
a part of the labour force and they have equal access to educational training this
have built their confidence, self esteem and independence in society as they enjoy
equal pay for work and has access to male dominated jobs.
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Marginalisation of males- because males have for a long time generated the
financial wealth in the family as they have occupied the role of breadwinner and
the chief disciplinarian and main source of authority they were seen as the head of
the household (patriarchal) however since women have been included in the
labour force some women are earning the same income as men or even more the
traditional role of males in the family has changed. As a result men are no longer
seen as the dominant or superior person in the family or in society. Hence most
Caribbean families are equalitarian.
Preparation for parenthood
It is during the period of courtship that individuals seek to develop the traits necessary
for good parenting. The couple needs to be aware of what parenthood involves and to
prepare for it. Individuals need to be ready:
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Physically prepared- because of the many health issues associated with
pregnancy it is important that a woman is physically mature and healthy to
bring a child to full term. The female body should be healthy enough to enable
her to deliver the baby without bringing dander to herself and the health of her
baby.
Economically- it is important that before a couple decides to have a baby they
are financially prepared. Being financially prepared means that the couple can
be adequately provide for the basic needs for the child and can meet the
financial demands of the home.
Emotionally –the parent should be able to cater for the needs of the child
through love, care, security, support and attention
Psychological- this is where the couple is mentally prepare themselves for a
child in the family.
Characteristics of a good parent
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A good listener- listen to children views and opinions
A good role model- show good attitudes and values that children would want to
follow
Make time for the family- spend time with children and become involve in their
lives
Display unconditional love- love children regardless of what they have done but
express how you feel about they are doing or have done
Contemporary social issues
These are everyday concerns in modern society that individuals groups and government
have to consider seriously. These include:
• Substance abuse- alcohol and drug abuse
• Teenage pregnancies
• Child abuse
• Domestic violence- abuse in the home
• Sexually transmitted diseases- AIDS/HIV, gonorrhoea, syphilis etc.
• Poverty
• Street children
• Suicide
Social Issues
Causes
Teenage
pregnancyunderage girl
becoming
pregnant (13-19
years old)
*Peer pressure
*Dysfunctional
Homes
*abuse in home
*poverty
*low self esteem
*curiosity or experiment
Child Abuse-the
abuse of a child
physically,
mentally, sexually
etc by a parent or
guardian
*substance abuse
*parent or guardian was also
abused
*stress of parents
*insolent children
*financial or other problems
experienced by parents
Street Childrenchildren who live
on the street
between the ages
of 5 and 17.
*unemployment of parents
*parental neglect
*peer pressure
*poverty
* lack of parental control
*death of parents
Effects
Solutions
*places stress on the
county’s financial
resources
*disruption in the
education of the teenage
mothers
*higher rates of poverty
*medical concerns
*death
*causes child to be violent
or aggressive
*physical or mental
impairment
* emotional and physical
scars on children
*resentment of parents
*increase in crime and
violence
*place a pressure on the
county’s social
infrastructure
*reduce the productive
members of the labour
force
*involvement in extra-curricular
activities
*teaching sex education in
schools
*promotion of contraception and
safe sex for teens
*peer counselling
*counselling of parents and
abused children
*discouraging corporal
punishment
*providing affordable child care
* using other methods of
punishment than beating etc
*placing children into homes for
safety
*providing skill training for these
children so they can contribute to
the society
*provision of foster homes for
these children
*exposure to drugs and
guns
*low self esteem
*increase in criminal
activities
*strain on country’s
resources
*low self esteem
*disruption in family
relationship
*county robbed of human
resources
*depression on family
Poverty- the
inability to afford
the necessary
items for survival.
*unemployment
*lack of education and training
*limited financial resources
*economic hardship (recession)
Suicide- the act
of purposefully
killing oneself.
*broken relationships
*death or loss of love ones
*substance abuse
*depression
*emotional and financial stress
Sexual
transmitted
diseaseinfectious
diseases cause by
viruses which are
transmitted by
sexual contact.
Juvenile
Delinquencycriminal activity
committed by a
child below the
age of 18.
*multiple sex partners
*unprotected sex
*ignorance
*promiscuity
*prostitution
*strain on financial
resources of the country
*deprivation of the
country’s labour force
*increase in the
dependency ratio
* strain on health care
*lack of parental supervision
*parents are working most of
the time
*neglection
*break up in the family
*drug abuse
* peer pressure
*strain on country’s
resources
* drop out of school
*imprisonment
*poor reputation and
character
Incest- sexual
relation between
family members
*ignorance
*lack of spousal activity
*family dysfunction
Alternative
Lifestyle- this is a
lifestyle that is
going against the
accepted norm
and values of a
society.
*experiment
*lifelong preferences
*money
*freedom of choice
*mental and emotional
scars on the individuals
*depression
*it carries a very bad
stigma
*can lead to death of the
individual that engages in
this life style
* erodes the values and
norms of society
especially the church
teachings
* provision of welfare for poor
families
*creating employment
opportunity
*welfare provision
*non governmental agencies
assisting these persons
*counselling
*provide encouragement for
victim
*having good and supportive
friends
* share problems openly with
close friends and love ones.
*get tested
* teaching of sex education
*use of condoms and the
availability of these
*having on sexual partner
*informing the public about these
diseases and their transmission
*teaching children not to engage
in delinquency
*providing clear rules and
punishment for behaviour
*family counselling
*guidance counselling at school
*teaching methods to abstain
from peer pressure
*family and individual therapy
*counselling
* participation in support groups
*more involvement of the church
*counselling
*more parental influence
*abstinence from this type of
lifestyle
Laws in divorce
The grounds for divorce or the conditions for a divorce include:
• Proof of adultery
• Unreasonable behaviour
• Separation for two years(consent of partner required)
• Desertion for two years
Laws in childcare
When a couple decides to divorce, separate or break off the relationship a court of law
may order the parent of the chid (usually the father) to make monthly maintenance
payments for the up bring of thee child. If the money is not paid a warrant is issued to
arrest the defaulter.
Past paper questions on family
1. Define each of the following: sibling household and single parent family
(b) Identify two types of non legal unions that consenting adults enter into in the
Caribbean
(c) State two problems children in a single parent family face
(d) Give three reasons why parents may need guidance in dealing with teenage
children
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Describe three factors that may improve the quality of life of the elderly
(b) Give one reason why some families prefer to have their elderly at home
(c) Give two reasons why some families send their elderly to a home for the aged
(d) Suggest two actions that the government may take to improve the condition of
poor elderly persons
END OF THE CONCEPT FAMILY
TOPIC: INDIVIDUAL AND SOCIETY- Social groups and institution
Definition of terms used in groups and institution
Society- is a group of people held together by a common culture
Culture-is the way of life of a people. (The way you talk, the way you dress, the food
you eat your beliefs, values and attitudes
Group- is made up of two or more persons engaged in any type of activity with each
other
Types of groups
Primary group-a group where the relationship takes place face to face (a small group) it
can also be divided into informal and formal group. Example of primary group is a class
with its teacher.
Secondary group- this is usually larger than a primary group. There is not a great level
of personal contact and the arrangement is formal. Example: Political parties, trade
unions
Formal group- this group has a formal structure and may require membership, election
code of conduct. Example: sports team, scout group
Informal group- this has no set rules controlling membership and organization.
Example: peer group
Peer group- this is formed by people of the same age group. In this group certain attitude
and behaviour are expected. Example: a group of girls or boys
Interest group- in this group person shares the same likings in this there is an exchange
of news on all sorts of topics. Examples: sports club, religious group
Voluntary groups- formed to provide some service to the community or to support a
good cause. Example: red Cross, Kiwanis club
Involuntary group- in this membership is not voluntary; members are forced to belong
because they have no alternative.
Norms-these are unwritten rules which exist in a society. A norm is a pattern of the way
we expect people to act and behave. Example it is right that a child grow up with and
living at home with their parents
Mores- these are norms which deals with respect for others. They become moral values.
Example it is wrong to steal and kill
Folkways- are types of norms which are generally kept by society but breaking them is
not morally wrong example forming a queue (line) celebrating birthday
Law- is a mean of social control. It is set out in writing and specific penalties are drawn
up if they are broken
Basic requirements for group cohesion
An individual may join a group because he/she can identify with the aim of the group and
make a contribution. However a group is made up of different individuals. Therefore there
are necessary things that need to be done for the group to survive these are:
• Leadership- this ensure the goals of the group are achieved
• Control- this ensure that that member conform to expected patterns of behaviour
• Cooperation- each member must play their part
• Authority- this is the right of the leader to influence others to get things done
• Commitment and loyalty
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Characteristic of social groups
Voluntary or involuntary membership
Marks of identity (badges, uniforms)
Common needs and interests
Cooperation among member to achieve goals
Specific ways of interacting which are determined by rules and regulation
Aspects of social interaction within and between groups
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Competition within a group in relation to the interest and needs of groups
Cooperation between groups in relation to attainment of group goals
Change in inter and intra group relationship
Institutions
Institutions- these are widely shared beliefs, norms or procedures which satisfy basic
needs. They can also be seen as arrangements by which individuals groups and
organization resolve central problems of living
Types of institutions and functions
Educational – to prepare the individual for the world of work, and to ensure the all round
development of the individual by providing students with the basic reading writing skills,
and to make individuals literate and prepared to live in society
Religious- to reinforce the beliefs in a supernatural being, and to teach a reverence for life,
to provide identity for individuals
Government- to direct and control the country’s affair, to enforce laws, to make laws ant
to set policies to guide the country
Economic – these describe a range of activities in which individuals groups and
organization engage to satisfy needs and wants they include the range of financial services
provided for by banks, stock markets credit unions etc.
Characteristics of institution
A social norm:
• Made up of norms, mores and values
• They endure over time (generation to generation)
• Can be modified
• Satisfy basic and specific needs of individuals
• Forms the basis for the developments of organization
An organization:
• A hierarchical structure
• Specific functions
• Written rules
• Symbols
• Endure over time
Government as an institution (terms in government)
Government refers to a group or an agency of political officials that direct and control
the affairs of the country unbehalf of the citizens who elect them.
Constitution-a system of basic principles according to which a nation state or group is
organized
Electorate- person eligible to vote
Democracy-rule by the people
Universal adult suffrage-persons over the age of 21 was allowed to vote after 1944(it
has been lowered to 18)
Bicameral- this is the description of parliament that has two houses
Unicameral-description of parliament with one house
Caribbean Common wealth countries-Jamaica, Bahamas, Guyana, St.Vincent Trinidad
and Tobago, St.Lucia, Belize, Dominica, St. Kitts, Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada,
Barbados
Constituency- electoral districts
Functions of government
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Raise revenue through direct and indirect taxation
Provide social services (welfare, education, health, public utilities)
Manage the finances of the country(budgeting)
Maintain law and order
Create employment opportunities
Maintain international relation
Structure of government
The structure of the government is determined in large part by the constitution of the
country. The constitution describes the relationship of various parts of government to one
another and the functions to be carried out by each part. In the structure of the
government there are three arms of government
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Legislature- Functions: (law making arm), make and repeal laws, to introduce
laws, amend laws or alter existing laws and to discuss matters of urgent concern
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Executive-Function: ( policy making arm) to discuss draft legislation, to decide
on the budget, to maintain proper security and defends for citizens, to obtain loans
from national regional and international sources.
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Judiciary-Function: (enforce the laws) to interpret law to make case law to
enforce law by the administration of justice.
The court system in the Caribbean
The judiciary is the legal system through which: sanctions can be handed out to
individuals or organization that break the laws and disputes between individuals or
organization can be resolved.
In order of hierarchy, the court system in Caribbean countries
I. Caribbean Court of Justice
II. Court of appeal
III. High court - civil and criminal division
IV. Magistrates’ court
Functions of the courts
Courts
Magistrates’ court
High court- criminal
division
High court - civil division
Court of appeal
Functions
Trials in a magistrates’ court are called summary trials
Magistrates: try minor criminal offences, conduct preliminary enquires
into criminal or indictable offences such as murder or rape, conduct (in a
coroner’s court) investigates into unnatural deaths.
Tries the serious offences for which the magistrates’ court conducted
preliminary.
Settles disputes relating to civil matters such as divorce, libel and property
disputes
Consists of a panel of three judges. An individual who believes ho/she did
not receive a fair trial in either magistrates’ or high court may have the
case reviewed. Any sentence or fine imposed by the lower court may be
upheld, reversed, increased or decreased.
Caribbean Court of
Justice (CCJ)
The final court of appeal for members of CARICOM who are signatories
of the CCJ.
The CCJ also functions as an international tribunal, applying rule of
international law in respect of the interpretation and application of the
CARICOM treaty.
Roles/functions of the police
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Protect life and property
Prevent crime
Detect and investigate crime
Apprehend and interrogate suspected criminals
Preserve peace and maintain order
Enforce laws
Investigate accidents
Monitor traffic flow
Execute warrants
The role of the Prime Minister
The prime minister is the head of government. He/she is appointed by the head of
state ( the governor general or the president, depending on the government system).
the prime minister has several powers and functions. He/she :
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Determines the size of the cabinet and chooses its members.
Recommends the appointment or dismissal of cabinet members to the governor
general.
Assigns or reassigns responsibilities to cabinet members
Chairs cabinet meetings
Fixes the dates for elections
Takes the lead in formulating policies for the country
The role of the opposition
The opposition parties criticise and oppose government policies with which they
disagree. A strong opposition:
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Ensures that the legislature keeps the power of the executive in check
Ensures that the government is accountable for its actions, revealing weaknesses,
mismanagement or corruption
Introduces its own bills to improve the governance of the country
Types of government system
Crown colony government- all the British colonies had come under direct control of the
crown it consisted of a governor appointed by the crown and a council made up of people
in the colony chosen by the governor. In other word the people representing the
population in the colonies where not elected but chosen by the governor. Today Anguilla,
Turks and Cacios, Cayman Islands, British Virgin Islands and Montserrat are examples of
this government in the Caribbean.
Constitutional monarchy- is one where the British monarch through her representative
the governor general remains as head of state. However real power stay with the elected
government. This system is based on the British west minister model (British system).
Characteristics are: two party systems, separation of power, general election every five
years, cabinet system of government. Jamaica, St. Vincent and Barbados use this system
Republics- in this the people are considered as sovereign and their representative, the
president is the head of state in this the president is the head of state and head of
government. Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago use this system
Structure of the different government systems
Structure of crown colony government
Monarch
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Governor (has almost complete authority)
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Executive council (appointed by the governor)
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Legislative council (elected representative of the people)
Structure of constitutional monarchies
Monarch
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Governor General (ceremonial head of state)
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Senate
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House of representative
Structure of Republics
President
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Senate
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House of representative
Types of electoral systems in the commonwealth Caribbean
In the common wealth Caribbean countries they use basically two types of electoral
system to choose their government these are: the first past the post (simple majority)
and the proportional representation. The government is chosen through the legislative
arm of government
First past the post (simple majority)
In this system the country is divided into constituency (electoral districts). The political
party that wins the most constituencies or the highest number of seats in the House of
Representative forms the government. The political leader that commands the majority of
seats in the house of representative to form the government, this individual becomes the
head of government-prime minister. Jamaica and all the other countries in the common
wealth Caribbean EXCEPT Guyana use this system.
Example: Constituency: left side
Political parties
number of votes
PNG
4,030
PNP
3,900
JLP
3,050
The winner is PNG as the won the most number of votes
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Advantages of first past the post
There tends to be a close relationship between the representative and the
constituents(member of parliament mp and the people in the community)
There is more awareness of the needs of the constituents
The representative has a responsibility to the constituents who elect him/her
Disadvantages
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Possibility of gerrymandering( to manipulate the boundary of a constituency so
one party has an unfair advantage)
Neglecting of the opposition constituency
A party with the minority support can form the government
Proportional representative
In this system the whole country is treated as a single constituency.any number of
political party can contest the election. Each political party puts up a list of candidates to
fight the election block to block. On Election Day the people vote for the political party
of their choice. When the count is taken if one political party get 50 percent of the votes it
gets 50 percent of the seats if another gets 40 percent votes it get 40 seats and so on. Each
party will then list from the top the persons to fill the seats which it has one.
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Advantages of PR
Gerrymandering is prevented as no boundary exist
Strengths of a party in the legislature reflects the strength of the party in the
county
Each representative represents the whole country and not just a specific area or
constituency
Disadvantages
The close relationship which can exist between the representative and the
constituents would disappear in this system as there are no constituencies
Decision making are difficult as there is a number of political party where neither
of them has a clear majority
It allows the existence of small secretariat groups
How political parties prepare for elections
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Selects candidate
Raise funds
Conduct campaigns
Identify important issues
Monitor the party in power/opposition
Monitor the election process
Commission public opinion polls
Publish manifesto
Factors that influence the outcomes of elections
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Media coverage
Campaign advertising
Public opinion polls
Voter turnout
Voter attitude toward government
Campaign strategy
Campaign spending
Factors that influence people to vote
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Newspaper- everyday thousands of people receive the daily newspaper they read
the items of news, special articles etc, in this way the whole country is presented
with a point of view and is influenced by this presentation
Radio and television- these are a very power full method of influencing people
opinion as people can listen to it in their leisure time, at work or while they are
travelling
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Family- this helps to influence people opinion as this is the first agency of
learning hence a person follows after their family or generation
Community-the community in which you live influence your vote
Party policy
Religion
Factors that influence voter participation in election
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Voter attitude towards government
Voter loyalty to political party
Education
Age
income
Rights and freedom of a citizen
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The right of an individual to equality of treatment from any public authority in the
exercise of any function (treated fairly by police soldiers etc)
The right to join a political party to express political views
The right to a parent or guardian to provide the basic necessities
The right of an individual to life and liberty
Freedom of movement( go about anywhere in Jamaica freely)
Freedom of religious beliefs(worship whomever you chose and worship any day
you chose)
Freedom of thoughts and expression(freedom of speech)
Freedom of press
Responsibilities of a citizen
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To obey and act in the spirit of the constitution and the laws of state
To exercise the rights granted to him/her
To know his/her rights
To contribute in proportion to his/her means to the revenues required for
providing public services that is paying taxes
Role of the ombudsman
An ombudsman is an independents public official who investigates complaints made by
citizens who allege (not proven) that they have been unjustly treated or victimized by
government departments and agencies. The ombudsman is responsible for parliament and
belongs to no political party.
Past paper questions on institutions
1. Define the term culture
(b) Name two traditional religions to which people in the English speaking
Caribbean belong
(c) List two types of music that have emerged as aspects of the culture of the
people in the Caribbean
(d) Give three reasons why young people in the Caribbean should know their
cultural heritage
2. State the characteristics of an institution
(b) State three functions of an educational institution
(c) Explain three ways in which an institution controls its members
(d) Suggest two ways the government may correct the behaviour of delinquent
youth in your community
3.Draw any one of the three system of government
(a) name one CARICOM country that uses the system drawn
(b) name another CARICOM country that use another system of government
(c) explain the functions of the three arms of government
(d) suggest one way in which a citizen of a CARICOM country may participate in
the governance of his/her county
END OF INDIVIDUAL AND SOCIETY
TOPIC: DEVELOPMENT AND USE OF RESOURCES: physical resources
Physical resources are the natural resources of the earth. They include: land, forest, water,
marine environment, soils, mineral and energy. People need physical resources for food
shelter and the production of goods. The government and international organization are
engaged in the further development of these resources for economic purposes and
wellbeing of citizens some countries including the Caribbean posses physical resources in
large quantities. There is an interrelationship between human resources and physical
resources; physical resources are exploited for the development of people and societies
however the environment must not be destroyed in the process. Natural resources are
broken down into groups:
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Renewable Resources- these are resources that can be replaced, restored or
regrown therefore mankind will never run of out of the stock of them.
•
Non-Renewable Resources- these are resources that cannot be replaced, restored
or regrown. Therefore when mankind run out of the stock of these they will have
to find substitutes to replace them.
Examples of these are:
Renewable resources- agricultural land, water, forest, beaches, marine life, solar energy
and wind.
Non- renewable resources- petroleum, bauxite, gold, diamond (minerals), fossil fuels (is
fuel that is formed from the remained of dead plants and animals) coal oil and natural gas
Uses of Natural Resources
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Land- this is used for farming, production of agricultural products, beaches and
parks set aside for tourism development, housing settlement and agricultural
development
Forest- is used for: providing jobs( planting, saw milling), provide recreational
opportunities(hunting, hiking), provide lumber for furniture, houses
Water- used for: energy ( hydroelectric power), domestic purposes(drinking,
bathing), irrigation(supply land with water eg.watering of plants),
recreation(boating, fishing)
Energy – is the power which a body or system possess for doing work
Hydroelectric energy- used to produce electricity by using the energy given off
by moving water in rivers or waterfalls
Wind energy- use to generate electricity
Bauxite-used to produce aluminum
Solar energy- this is energy from the sun and can be used or converted into
electricity
Petroleum- is used in homes, transportation and manufacturing
Minerals found and energies in the
Caribbean
Oil
Countries in the Caribbean that have
these minerals
Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Cuba,
Venezuela
Bauxite
Jamaica, Guyana, Haiti, Dominica
Republic, Suriname
Guyana, Dominica Republic, Venezuela,
Suriname
Cuba, Jamaica, Dominica Republic
Cuba, Dominica Republic
Cuba
Guyana
Barbados. Grenada, St.Kitts and Nevis,
Antigua and Barbuda, St.Lucia, St.
Vincent, Dominica
Jamaica, St. Vincent, Dominica
Antigua, Barbados, Montserrat
Gold
Gypsum
Nickel
Copper
Diamonds
Forest
Hydroelectric power
Wind energy
Crops in the Caribbean
Sugar cane
Countries
Jamaica, Cuba, Belize, Dominican
Republic, Puerto Rico, St.Kitts, Barbados,
Trinidad and Tobago, Haiti
Jamaica, Haiti, Dominican Republic,
Puerto Rico, Grenada
Cuba, Belize, Dominican Republic, Puerto
Rico, Trinidad and Tobago
Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Trinidad
and Tobago
Cuba, Jamaica, Dominican Republic,
Puerto Rico, Trinidad and Tobago
Jamaica, Grenada
Bananas
Citrus Fruits
Cocoa
Coffee
Spices
Tobacco
Uses of the land
In the Caribbean region, a significant proportion of the land is used for the following
purposes:
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Peasant farming;
Commercial production of the agricultural products;
Beaches and parks set aside for tourism development;
Housing settlements and industrial estate.
Forest Use
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Forests are also important because they:
Provide jobs-planting,felling,saw milling and transporting;
Provide recreational opportunities-hunting, hiking and sightseeing;
Provide lumber for houses, furniture, etc.
Water Use
Water is essential to life. No water on earth means any life on earth. It is the most
abundant and widely distribute chemical compound on earth. All these aid in the
development and self reliance of a country. Water use is for:
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Health
Irritation
Energy (hydroelectric power)
Recreation (boating,surfing,fishing)
Domestic purposes (drinking,bathing,washing)
Environment as a resource
Physical resources have to be extracted for use and proceed to make products to satisfy
man’s needs and wants. This can cause pollution. Pollution can be defined as the
introduction of a foreign substance into the environment which defeats the ability of
the environment to adjust or cope with it. The result is that the environment no longer
remains pure but is contaminated and may even be destroyed. Environmental pollution
also affects man’s health. There are many different types of pollution each causing effects
on the environment some of these are:
Land pollution
Land pollution is cause by the following:
• Dumping solid and liquid wastes in backyards, at roadsides, vacant lots, beaches
• Dumping or burying of toxic waste by industry;
• Improper use of fertilizers or pesticides by farmers
Effects
The consequences of land pollution are as follows.
• Its creates an unhygienic environment which promotes the spread of disease, e.g.
cholera and dengue, by flies, mosquitoes and rats.
• It causes offensive odours.
• Toxic waste poisons the soil preventing food production or human settlement.
Prevention
Land pollution can be minimizing by:
• Education awareness programmes;
• Laws to prevent the disposal of solid waste;
• Recycling
Fresh water pollution
Fresh water is found in streams, rivers, lakes and springs. Fresh water pollution may be
cause by:
• Housing waste which enter the drainage system;
• Agricultural inputs and waste-pestcides,animal manure and inorganic fertilizers;
• Oil spills
Effects of fresh water pollution
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Ground water/surface water transmits diseases to man
Livelihoods’ are disrupted, e.g. fishermen
Tourism decline
Prevention
Government can introduce policies to reduce marine/coastal pollution.
Introduce education awareness programmes about the value of water and sea as resource.
Make laws forbidding the dumping of harmful waste into sea.
Air pollution
Human activities are the major cause of air pollution. Air pollution is cause by the
following:
• Exhaust as result of factory operations;
• Motor vehicle exhaust
• Burning refuse
Effects
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Air pollution, which includes smog, lowers visibility
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It damages plant life
It affects human health (increase asthma and other respiratory ailments)
Prevention
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Introduction of education awareness programmes
Use of unleaded gas and compressed natural gas
Noise pollution
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Some causes of noise pollution are as follow:
Noise created by transpiration, e.g. blare of sirens, honk of horns, squeal of
brakes, roar of jet aircraft;
Construction noise, e.g. sound of jackhammers, pneumatic riveters, bulldozers,
concrete mixers etc
Effects of noise pollution
Annoys and districts
Hinders concentration
Creates nervousness
Prevention
Use of awareness programmes on dangers of noise pollution
Use of ear plugs
Conservation of the Environment
Conservation is the management of the environment to ensure adequate supplies of
natural resource for today’s generation and future generations Conservation therefore
involves:
• Protection of resource (animals,water,land,soil,minerals, etc)
• Reduction of consumption
• Reduction of waste
Conservation should be a concern of government and people everywhere because
population growth has resulted in an increase in the demand for renewable and nonrenewable resource. Water conservation looks ways to reduce consumption and wastage
of water. Forest conservation attempts to increase the quantity and variety of trees and
plants, reduce losses in growing timber (cause by fires, desease and weather) and develop
new resistant strain of trees. Wildlife conservation includes development of wildlife parks
and reservation and the regulation of hunting and fishing season through license and
permits.
Conservation of water
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The use of water meters(see how much water is being used)
The construction of dams and reservoirs( storage of water)
Improvement in personal habits such as turning taps off after use, or promptly
repairing broken mains
Conservation of land
Educational programmes on the conservation of lands must be ongoing, so that the
society understands the importance of land in the balance of nature. The preservation and
projection of land are especially important with the increasing use of disposable cans,
disposal bottles and other containers with which man litters the environment.
Land conservation measure may include the following:
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Zoning –allocating areas for agricultural activities only or for housing only
Improvement of farming techniques:
- Proper use of fertilizer
- Irritation measures
Conservation of forest
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A forestation(planting of forest trees)
Reforestation where deforestation has been widespread(replanting forest trees that
have been cut down)
Introducing zoning legislation (laws) so that forest areas are not used for housing
construction.
Conservation of marine life
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Banning certain fishing methods e.g. drift net fishing and use of explosives
Limiting size of fish that can be caught
Establishing a closed season or banning the catching of endangered species of
marine life e.g. turtles, whales and conch
REGIONAL INTEGRATION
Major challenges facing the Caribbean
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lack of diversification
unemployment and unemployment
low levels of production and productivity
high level of indebtedness
high level and cost of imports
small size and small national markets
low value of exports
differences in resources distribution
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Factors promoting regional integration
common culture (members have similar culture such as music, food, language etc)
common economic and social issues
vulnerability
External challenges/ effects of globalization( all the members have these problem
so they need to integrate so as to solve these problem)
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Factors that hinders regional integration
differences in stages of growth and development
absence of common currency
unequal distribution of resources
lack of diversification in production
competition for local industries
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Benefits of regional integration
reduction in unemployment and underemployment
improvement in the quality of life
free movement of goods, labour and capital
increased market size
expansion of trade
increase cooperation among member states
Role of citizens in the integration process
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support regional producers
invest in local and regional business
being informed
entrepreneurship
Role of business organization
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improve competition
provide opportunities for investment and employment
improve range of quality of goods and services
Role of government
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enabling legislation
honouring protocols
educating citizens about the objectives and benefits of integration
Areas or regional cooperation
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Agriculture – CARDI (Caribbean agricultural research and development
institute)-provides assistance to agricultural business to improve productivity and
explore new opportunities, provides technical advisory services
Education-UWI ( University of the West Indies), CXC( Caribbean Examination
Council)
Sports – CONCACAF( confederation of central American and Caribbean
Football)
Health – CAREC ( Caribbean Epidemiological centre), CEHI (Caribbean
Environment health institute)
Emergency response – CDERA (Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response
Agency) - provides assistance in times of disasters, and formulates disaster
management plan.
Defining terms as relate to CARICOM
Bilateral agreement- an agreement between two countries
Multilateral agreement- an agreement between many countries
Regionalism- working for the benefit of the region
Infrastructure- this include all the man made resources such as roads, runways, water
supply, sewage disposal etc.
CARICOM- shortened name for Caribbean community
CARICOM countries- its member ship has been widen and now include: Antigua and
Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Montserrat
St. Lucia, St, Vincent and the grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, Haiti, Suriname, and
Dominica republic
Economic integration- any type of agreement in which countries agree to coordinate
their trade and monetary policies
Trade liberalization- the removal or reduction in trade practices that thwart (prevent)
free flow of goods and services from one country to another.
Globalization- is a process of interaction and integration among the people, companies
and government of different nations through international trade.
Trading blocs- nations/ countries belonging to a mutual trade pact agreeing to give each
other reduced trade tariffs (taxes placed on goods)and other accommodations while
imposing trade barriers and restrictions to non member nations
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Objectives of CARICOM
To deepen the free trade among member states(Countries apart of CARICOM) in
this the duties and quotas (taxes) are remove and any other obstacles for the
importation and exportation of goods between member state(goods are traded
freely)
To foster cooperation in non economic areas such as health, education,
communication, culture, youth and sport
To maximize the bargaining power of member states so that they can deal
effectively with multinational corporations and larger countries.
Function of CARICOM
CARICOM member states derive many benefits from the organization. When states
integrate, they become eligible to benefit from all the institution of that union.
• Individually, the member state is too small to withstand economic completion from
larger countries and trading blocs. When resource such as oil, bauxite, sugar and
species are pooled, the Caribbean should also be able to negotiate better deals in
economic agreements.
• Caricom is also committed to trade within region. Therefore, integration provides
a larger market for the individual member state.
• Caricom has a stronger, more persuasive voice in global matters than individual
state do. Size means power and with this power, an integrated Caribbean will be
increasingly able to influence the direction of world affairs. A united Caribbean
should be better able to prevent spur-of-the moment invasions of member state by
other countries.
• Integration should foster a sense of Caribbean identify. It should allow caricom
people to explore and better appreciate the cultures of other member states.
Caricom countries also benefits from the talents of their individual members. For
example, an idea developed by a St.Lucian may improve produce techniques’ in
Jamaica.
Problems in CARICOM
CARICOM has existed since 1973. However, the integrated and co-operation desired for
the region’s people have been slow. Here are some of the problems in CARICOM:
• One reason for this is member states conflict between national and regional
loyalties. Countries have been more concerned with achieving the mandate given
to them by their electorate than attending to and implement regional goals which
would result in benefits for region. Elected governments often attach more
importance to seeing their member states achieve status in international areas as
nations than as a part of caricom, even though they understand that small
individual nation states wield little power.
• Some CARICOM member’s states have more resource than others. The moredeveloped countries are fortunate to have deposits of mineral resources.
Throughout caricom’s history, they have wanted to utilize income gained from
wealth for their country’s benefits rather than for regional benefits. The moredevelop countries compete amount themselves to attract investors, offering a
variety of incentives to woo multinational companies.
• Each country wants its own factories to produce items for its people as it seeks to
export goods. This is preferred to strategically placing different types of factories
in several caricom countries to produce items for the entire region and other
countries.
There are other organizations that work with CARICOM for the purpose of integration
regionally and internationally each having their own objectives to be met and it also takes
on membership from various member states. These are:
Organisation of Eastern Caribbean State (OECS)
OECS is a governmental organization dedicated to economic harmony and integration
protection of human rights and the encouragement of good governance between
countries. It is also responsible and liable in the event of natural disaster (hurricane).
Some of the objectives of OECS are:
• Wants to strengthen-operation among member states at regional and international
levels;
• Promotion of unity and solidarity among member states and defending their
sovereignty and independence;
• Promotion of economic integration through the eastern Caribbean common
market;
• Arrange for overseas representatives to work together for common foreign policy
objectives.
Members of OECS: Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, British Virgin Islands, Dominica,
Grenada, Montserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Association of Caribbean states (ACS)
The association of the Caribbean states bring together for the first time the English,
Spanish French and Dutch speaking countries and territories of the Caribbean Sea.
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Objectives of ACS
Wants to strengthen cooperation and integration among member states through
economic activities by trading raw materials and finished products among
members
Preserve the Caribbean environment
Member countries should work together on pollution problems and to develop
conservation strategies thus ensuring sustainable development in the Caribbean
region
Members of ACS: Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Columbia, Costa
Rica, Cuba, Dominica, El Salvador, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Dominica Republic,
Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St.
Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela
For these organizations to function there are factors that promote cooperation among the
members and also factor that hindering corporation among the members. There are also
specific areas of cooperation, some of these are:
Past paper question on CARICOM
1. State two factors which facilitate regional integration in the Caribbean
(b) State one factor which hinders regional integration
(c) Describe three ways in which CARICOM members states have benefited from
regional integration
(d) Suggest two ways in which the government may encourage local
manufactures to support regional integration
Human Resource
Defining terms used in human resource
Human resource- this is the energies, skills talents and knowledge of people which are
or which potentially can or should be applied to the products of goods and services.
Population- refers to the total number of people who live in any given area at a certain
point in time
Birth rate- refers to the number of live births in one year per thousand of the population
Death rate- refers to the number of death per thousand of the total population
Natural Increase- this refers to when the birth rate exceeds the death rate
Life expectancy- refers to the average number of years that a newborn baby can expect
to live
Infant mortality- refers to the number of deaths each year per thousand infants under the
age of one year in a given population
Population density- refers to the geographical location of the people in a population
Population distribution- is the concentration of population in a given unit of area
Migration- the permanent movement of persons from one geographical location or
region to another
Net migration- this is where the number of people immigrating exceeding those
emigrating
Emigration – this is the movement of people out of the region or country
Immigration – this is the movement of people into the region or country
Resources- anything living or non living thing(s) which may be useful to a people and
their society (human beings land forest animals etc)
Employment-holding a position or a job where a salary or wage is received
Unemployment- without a paid job
Underemployment- jobs in which people are overqualified for
Unemployable-person who cannot get a job at all or will not work for varying reasons
Labour force-persons who are employed and unemployed
Urbanization-growth of cities/ concentration of resources and facilities in towns and
cities
All societies contain resources. Use of these resources depends on the quality of the
people- the human resource. All institutions in the society- family, education, religion
and politics- influence and shape the quality of the human resource and the quality of the
human resource contributes to the progress of these institutions. Therefore the skills,
values, attitudes, habits, talents and capabilities that are possessed by the population or
which may be developed through training are crucial to the development of society. The
potential of our human resources can be realized by: good family life, good government,
good nutrition and health, good formal education, good work ethics, good moral and
religious education, good peer interaction, a healthy and clean environment etc.
Development of human resources through:
Health- health is an embracing term for physical mental emotional and spiritual well
being. The economic development of any nation is dependent upon its population being
physically and mentally health. People who are ill cannot produce gods and services
required by the country. In order to ensure that its population is healthy the government
must make health care a priority by having a well organizes health department or
ministry, sufficient doctors, nurses pharmacists etc.
Nutrition- nutrition is the study of the relationship between man and his food the human
body need nutrients from food for energy, growth and repair. In the body receives
insufficient quantities of these nutrients malnutrition occurs. Hence good nutrition is very
important to a human being if a person’s health is poor then he/ she cannot work to
produce the goods and services required by a country.
Availability of health care- good health can be maintained at three levels: primary,
secondary, tertiary health care. Primary health care refers to such care as is provided by
the National Health Service to prevent individuals from contracting diseases or illness,
this takes place through: promoting good nutrition, educating the population about the
conditions that create illness, providing immunization and promoting exercise.
Secondary health care refers to the curative aspect of health care that is it emphasizes
early detection and treatment of illness already contracted. This takes place through:
injections, counselling and rehabilitation. Tertiary health care emphasizes care,
treatment and rehabilitation for persons diagnose with diseases.
Education- education is more than schooling or having a certificate. It can be defined as
the acquisition of knowledge and skills. These may be required in school and out of
school. Education provides the creative thinkers problem solvers and skilled man power
that a country needs for economic social and technical development. The more educated
people become the more likely they are to achieve high levels of productivity.
Population Movement – Migration
People migrate for all sorts of reasons. Sometimes negative factors force them to leave
their home region. These factors include: natural disasters, war (crime and violence),
political instability, lack of jobs, famine etc. These reasons are referred to as push (force
people to leave) and pull (attract people to come) factors of migration.
Factors that influence rural to urban migration (moving from country areas to town
areas)
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Lack of proper infrastructure (no good roads, houses)
Underdevelopment (no electricity, water)
Lack of job opportunities
High standard of living
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Solving rural to urban migration (urbanization)
Invest in agriculture and related industries
Develop proper housing, water supply recreational facilities etc.
Build proper infrastructure
This will discourage and reduce people from moving from rural areas to urban areas
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Effects of rural to urban migration (urbanization)
Overcrowding of urban areas
Increase of crime and violence (persons are unskilled and inexperience)
Overcrowding leads to squatting and development of shanty towns(will add to
pollution)
Transport congestion
Pressure on resources (water, housing, health, education)
Factors that influence urban to rural migration (moving from town areas to country
areas)
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Increasing urban problems
Unemployment
Increase in crime and violence
Job opportunities in tourism industries
High standard of living
Migration can produce positive and negative consequences for the host/ receiving country
and the country of origin.
Positive effects of migration to the receiving country (country of destination)
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New skills may be introduced which may be beneficial to the labour force and the
whole country
New cultures are introduced
There may be more readily available labour force
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Negative effects of migration on the receiving country
Greater stress is placed on the resources and social services of the country
Over population may occur
Resentment of citizen to newly arrived persons as they feel threatened in terms of
jobs, housing etc
Increase in crime and violence
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Positive effects of migration to country of origin
It provides a temporary solution to unemployment problems
Money is sent home to migrants families hence foreign exchange
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Negative effects of migration to country of origin
Brain drain occurs as a result of the loss of skilled and professional persons who
migrate
Slowdown of the economy of the country
Under population as most persons migrate
Underdevelopment as no money will be invested in the country as those who
would have invested have left
Effects of migration on the individual
Loneliness
Language difficulties
Climatic differences
Racial or religious discrimination
Problem adjusting to new culture
Employment
Factors that influence employment, underemployment and unemployment
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Availability and use of capital
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Level and range of skills demanded versus those available
Availability and creation of markets, trading patterns and preferences
Level of technology available in relation to resource development
Individuals have different skills, abilities and aptitudes (natural ability/talent) which they
use in their quest for a job. Employment is important for the following reason:
• To earn a income to provide for oneself and family
• To provide for the future
• To maintain or improve standard of living
Factors affecting employment
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Level and range of skills demanded versus those available(do not have the skills
required for the job or over qualified for the job)
Level of education required for the job
Availability of job required
Factors affecting Unemployment
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By normal factors such as being fired, laid off or made redundant or leaving in
search of a better job (normal unemployment)
Technological changes where machines are replacing labour (technical
unemployment)
Person being laid off at certain times of the year (sugar cane workers) (seasonal
employment)
The number of jobs cannot keep pace with the number or persons entering the job
market.
Effects of unemployment
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Decline in standard of living
Less income available results in restrictions on buying power
Loss of wealth savings and property because unable to pay off loans etc.
Social burden on government
Fall in productivity
Factors affecting underemployment
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Level and range of skills demanded versus those available( over qualified for the
work required to be done)
Availability and use of capital ( not enough money to pay for the qualification
possessed)
Availability and creation of markets
Level of technology available in relation to resource development
Preparation for the world of work
Choosing a job- people should chose jobs that are best suited to their skills, temperament
and the developmental needs of the country. Young person should ask themselves several
questions when choosing a job:
• Do I want to work independently or with others
• Have I completed the necessary subjects in secondary school
• Do I want to be of service to humanity
• Do I want to use my talent in the field of sports or performing arts
The world of work involves working for oneself, for private industry or governmental
agencies. Choosing a successful career means choosing a challenging occupation through
which one earns a good income to maintain a particular life style and one in which you
find satisfaction.
Procedural requirements for job selection and self employment
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Collecting information on jobs- this can be done by seeking through
advertisements, websites, libraries etc
Listing available option- select various jobs that your are qualified for
Assessing available option
Determine consequences of your choice
Obtaining resources
Past paper questions on resources
1. State two renewable and two non renewable resources
(b) State one major use of each of the following
(c) Describe three problems that people may experience if there is a rapid
decrease in forest areas
(d) Suggest two conservation methods which may assist the government in the
region to address the rapid decrease in forest
2. Define each of the following: primary health care, curative health care
(b) State two services provided under primary health care
(c) State two services a government provides under curative health care
(d) Give three reasons why the government may emphasize nutrition and education
in its health plan
END OF RESOURCES AND COMPULSORY SECTION IN SOCIAL STUDIES
SYLABUS
OPTION AREA
Consumer affairs
Defining terms in consumer affairs
Consumer- any person group of individuals or institution that uses goods services and
credit.
Budgeting- a financial plan which shows how much is earn against how much is spent
Thrift-is an economical management of one’s resources to satisfy needs and wants
Savings- resources put aside for future use (the difference between what a person earn
and what a person spends)
Supply- refers to the amount of commodity the producers are willing to supply at a
specific price
Demand-refers to the amount of a commodity the consumers are willing and able to buy
at a specific price.
Disposable income-this is a gross monthly income (money available) minus taxes and
other compulsory deductions
Categories of consumers (types) - consumers of goods (buying food, clothes books etc)
consumers of services (going to the doctor, taking a bus, going to the post office) and
consumers of credit (using credit card, hire purchase, mortgage).
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Categories of consumers
As an individual, group, and institution
Consumer of goods- buying of goods
Consumer of services- use of services eg. Doctor’s visit, hiring a taxi etc
Consumer of credit: personal loans, credit cards, hire purchase, mortgages
Use of modern technology in transaction by consumers
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ATM- machine use to withdraw money from ones account at a bank
Internet banking- using the internet to perform transactions instead of going to the
bank
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Debit and credit card- the can be used to purchase goods and services instead of
cash
Tele-banking- use of the telephone to do bank transaction
Benefits of the use of modern technology
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Security issues (reduce the need to carry cash)
Convenience (easy access to goods and services money and financial records)
Time saving
Accessible 24 hours
Rights of a consumer
Consumers are sometimes victims of unfair consumer practices because they do not
know their rights and responsibilities. Consumers have the right to:
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Truthful and honest information about goods and services
Choose between products of different qualities and prices which are required to
satisfy needs
Buy gods that are safe
Complain to retailers if dissatisfied about a product or service
A fair settlement for a just claim
Responsibilities of a consumer
Consumers have the responsibility to:
• Report unsatisfactory products to retailers and manufacturers so that they may be
removed from the shelves
• Tell other consumers about any unfair treatment by a retailer or a manufacturer so
consumers can protect themselves in future dealings
• Demand the best value for money
• Report unsafe merchandises to consumer protection bodies so that it can be tested
and if necessary removed from markets
• Maintain and preserve a healthy environment
Consumer protection
Consumers need to be protected because some businessmen may exploit them in different
way such as: overcharging consumers for goods make false claims about what their
products can do, operate in unsanitary conditions, sell food and drinks unfit for human
consumption and give consumers smaller amounts than what they pay for. Hence the
government along with other agencies help to protect the consumers.
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Agencies that protect and educate consumers
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The government- set up various departments or bodies to control the price of
certain goods and services. The price commission or price control ensures that
there are maximum prices which products cannot be sold. This ensures that the
average consumer can afford to purchase such items
Bureau of standards- investigates complaints on the quality of goods in the
market place, ban products from the market which are dangerous and unfit for use
or carry false label, monitors products in the market place for correct labelling and
test products to ensure compliance with standard
Consumer affairs commission- investigates complaints about poor quality
goods, produce pamphlets on various subjects that consumers should know about
such as conserving, money management, food health, work with manufacturers,
distributors firms and stores to ensure that consumers’ rights are protected.
Office of utilities regulation (OUR)- to regulate the provision of utility services
so that consumers are given reliable economical and environmentally friendly
services.
Forms of consumer protection
There are certain procedures used to protect the consumer theses are:
• Price control (goods cannot be sold over a certain price)
• Regulation governing imports (monitoring goods coming in the country/imports
and ensure that substandard ones do not enter)
• Food and drug inspection (ensure foods are suitable for consumption)
• Supervision of credit facilities (laws that govern the use of credit among
consumers)
Factors influencing consumer demand
Consumer demand is the willingness and ability of consumers to buy goods and services
which they use to satisfy their needs and wants. Hence there are factors that influence
consumer demand these are:
• Size of income( amount of resources the consumer has)
• Taste patterns ( the design and quality of product)
• Credit facilities and condition (the amount of credit a consumer is allowed)
• Pricing (prices of the goods and services being sold)
• Advertising-notification of goods and services available-there are three types of
advertisement: persuasive- encourage consumers to buy goods and services they
would probably not think of buying, informative-they give details about a good or
service offered, misleading-give incorrect information about a goods and services
offered
Effects of devaluation on consumers
When money devalues (reduce the value of) they are it affects the consumer as well as
the pricing of goods and services some of these include:
• Higher price of goods and services
• Higher prices and falling income
• Lower standard of living
• Retrenchment (reduce costs of spending)
Consumers being thrifty
Thrift refers to the wise spending of money. It ensures that we do not spend but get value
for our money and that that we have proper and effective saving method. Consumers can
be thrifty by:
• Shopping wisely for goods and services (balancing quality against price)distinguish between need and wants. Buy in bulk is less expensive, compare
prices, avoid impulsive buying
• Institutions for savings (banks, credit unions, building societies )- these allow
consumers to save and borrow money for various reason such as buying a car,
purchasing a home, borrowing money for school tuitions etc
• Conservation (recycling)- avoid waste buy turning off light when not in use, use
less water and turn off taps when not in use, and recycle
• Use and care of your possession
Benefits of being thrifty
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There is always money for daily transaction
Likely to achieve ling term goals
Standard of living improves
Become more discipline
Locally produced goods and services
Government and manufacturing association try to persuade consumers to purchase locally
produce items as it provides many benefits such as:
• Buying local saves on foreign exchange when businessmen import products they
have to pay in foreign, hence the less spent on foreign products the more foreign
exchange saved
• Money saved may be used to develop local resources and basic facilities and
expanding existing industry
• The overall economy of the reign will develop
• Less reliance will be placed on foreign products
Some of the restrictions that the government have put on imported products so as to
persuade people to buy locally include:
• Restricting the amount of goods imported by instituting quota (a tax that put a
limit on the quantity allowed)
• Banning certain foreign products by setting a negative up list
• The imposition of imports duties which led to increase prices of foreign products
Consumer co-operatives and financial co-operatives
A co-operative is a business owned and controlled by the people who use it. Members of
the co-operative have a common bond through residence of work. Members have equal
say as the co-operatives operation. Each person in the co-operatives has shares. No matter
how many shares a person has, he/she has one vote at the annual general meeting.
Although each member is a share holder and has control over the activities of the cooperative a board of directors is selected at meeting to manage the day to day affairs of
the cooperative. Other members of a co-operative are members of the supervisory
committee, credit committee and educational committee. These are also selected at the
meeting. There are several types of co-operatives which are organized to meet the needs
of members. These include agricultural cooperatives societies, consumer co-operatives,
fishing co-operatives marketing co-operative and housing co-operatives.the two most
popular co-operative are the consumer co-operative and the financial co-operative.
Members of the consumer co-operative have shares in it. The co-operative sells a variety
of goods and offers other service at low cost. Financial co-operatives (credit unions)
allow all members to be shareholders and to share and borrow money at a reasonable rate
of interest financial co-operative pays dividends and grant a rebate on loans.
Savings
Individuals need to save and save regularly. Sometimes this will allow them to avoid hire
purchase or to increase their down payment on hire purchase items. Individuals can save
regularly in their credit unions or they can utilize a number of saving portfolio offered by
the bank and other financial institutions. Individuals may select a financial institution
based on the rate of interest being paid on deposits. They can also use the traditional
saving methods such as: partner, sharecropping, friendly societies etc.
Forms of savings
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Regular savings
Mortgages
Investments
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Benefits of a credit union
Lower interest rates on loans
Saving regularly
Easier access to loans
Sense of ownership
Financial counselling
Traditional forms of social and economic cooperation in the Caribbean
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Sou sou-A savings arrangement where a group of people each pool an equal
amount of money for a period time (month, two weeks, etc) and after that time is
al for investment gets their turn and receives that full lump sum at least once. It’s
not a pyramid scheme; no one loses as long as everyone's trustworthy and puts in
their share. It's just a way to hang on to money by putting tying it up into
something else temporary
Sharecropping is a system of agriculture or agricultural production in which a
landowner allows a tenant to use the land in return for a share of the crop
produced on the land
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friendly society (sometimes called a mutual society, benevolent society or
fraternal organization is a mutual association for insurance, pensions or savings
and loan-like purposes, or cooperative banking. Some friendly societies,
especially in the past, served ceremonial and friendship purposes also, while
others did not. It is a mutual organization or benefit society composed of a body
of people who join together for a common financial or social purpose. Before
modern insurance, and the welfare state, friendly societies provided financial and
social services to individuals, often according to their religious or political
affiliations.
How consumers can contribute to the sustainability development of the region
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investment in local and regional businesses
aware of integration objectives
conservation of the region’s resources
saving to provide capital
Communication
Defining terms in communication
Communication- this is the process by which information, feelings, ideas, opinions and
any other messages are transferred and received.
Censorship- this is a regulation/exercising control of the content of literature, visual
entertainment or information
Communiqué- an official communication, announcement or bulletin
Copyright- a legal protection for the originator of a work of literature or art from
unauthorized copying or amendment
Decode-to convert a message from code to ordinary language
Encode- to convert a message into code prior to transmission
Freedom of press- the right to express ideas, opinions and facts freely in writing
Mass mediaEND OF SUMARIZING THE SOCIAL STUDIES SYLLABUS