The document discusses the historical development of social sciences from ancient Greek philosophers to modern times. It notes that early study of society was based in philosophy and theology. The scientific revolution led to a more empirical, evidence-based approach to understanding the natural world and later, society. Key figures like Descartes, Kant, and Weber advocated using reason and rigorous analysis over religious dogma to determine truth. The rise of universities and secularization of learning furthered the development of social sciences into distinct fields of study aimed at understanding human behavior and society scientifically.