Human Science

20 Social and Global issues terms

Hi, my name is Laurence. I have been a student at Collège Ahuntsic for the past two years, and I’ve been in the same program the whole time, which is called Global and Social Issues in Social Science. In this program, we explore major global challenges such as poverty, climate change, human rights, and even the different ways people think and live in a city like Montreal. I believe my glossary can be a valuable resource for both future students and older individuals who want to learn more about the global issues affecting our world today. This glossary have 20 well-defined terms. I gathered them from various sources: some came from books I studied a few years ago, while others are inspired by my environment, my family, and my friends. We often have deep conversations—especially about politics and current events—which helped me shape the glossary's content.

activism
noun
the policy or action of using vigorous campaigning to bring about political or social change.
Example: "there is growing activism seeking social transformation"
fr: activisme
civil society
noun
society considered as a community of citizens linked by common interests and collective activity.
Example: "they make important contributions to civil society"
fr: société civil
The image shows the hashtag #ShiftThePower in bold colors, symbolizing community power and change.
climate change
nouns.
Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. Such shifts can be natural, due to changes in the sun's activity or large volcanic eruptions.
Example: "Climate change is a serious threat to our planet."
fr: changement climatique
The image shows a classroom setting with climate change symbols—like melting ice, wildfires, and the Earth—on a chalkboard or screen. A teacher appears to be explaining these topics to students. The image highlights the connection between climate change and ed
colonialism
noun.
the policy or practice of acquiring full or partial political control over another country, occupying it with settlers, and exploiting it economically.
Example: "The history of colonialism has left a lasting impact on many countries."
fr: colonialisme
This political cartoon from 1805 shows British Prime Minister William Pitt and French Emperor Napoleon cutting up the world, shown as a plum pudding. It satirizes how both leaders were trying to divide global power between themselves during the Napoleonic Wars
cultural diversity
noun
It a appreciating that society is made up of many different groups with different interests, skills, talents and. needs
Example: this showcases the incorporation of diverse traditions and beliefs.
fr: diversité culturelle
The image shows the hashtag #ShiftThePower in bold colors, symbolizing community power and change.
development
noun
the process in which someone or something grows or changes and becomes more advanced
Example: The city's recent economic development has led to increased job opportunities and a thriving business community.
fr: développement
People stand on stacked books, symbolizing growth and learning in professional development.
gender equality
noun
A situation in which access to rights or opportunities is unaffected by gender.
Example: Gender equality is not just a matter of fairness; it's a fundamental human right.
fr: égalité des sexes
global governance
noun
the processes and structures by which the world manages transnational issues, involving international cooperation and coordination across various actors, including nations, organizations, and individuals.
Example: the United Nations plays a crucial role in global governance, coordinating international efforts on various issues.
fr: gouvernance mondiale
Women stand outside the White House in 1917, holding banners to demand the right to vote.
globalization
noun.
Globalization is a term used to describe how trade and technology have made the world into a more connected and interdependent place. Globalization also captures in its scope the economic and social changes that have come about as a result.
Example: « Globalization has made it easier for people to communicate and do buisness across contries ».
fr: mondialisation
The image shows a globe surrounded by symbols like airplanes, people, technology, and world flags, representing global connections and cultural exchange.
human rights
plural noun.
a right that is believed to belong justifiably to every person.
Example: Human rights, as recognized in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, are fundamental rights inherent to all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances. Here are some examples of human rights:
fr: droits de la personne
The image shows diverse hands raised with different human rights symbols drawn on their palms, like peace signs, equality, and justice. It represents unity, diversity, and the universal nature of human rights.
idigenous rights
noun.
Indigenous rights are the human rights of indigenous peoples, recognized and affirmed by the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. These rights include self-determination, rights to land and resources, cultural and social rights, and the right to participate in decisions affecting their lives.
Example: The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples affirms their indigenous rights to self-determination and land ownership".
fr: droits des Autochtones
The image captures a large crowd of protesters marching down a street, likely in Washington, D.C., with the U.S. Capitol building visible in the background. The demonstrators are holding various colorful banners and signs, many featuring Indigenous symbols and
inequality
noun
"Inequality" refers to the state or condition of being unequal, lack of equality, or a difference in status, rights, or opportunities. This fits the definition of a noun, which is a word used to name a person, place, thing, or idea.
Example: The company's policies contribute to inequality within the workplace."
fr: inégalité
The image is an illustration showing economic inequality. It depicts a large gap between two groups of people — one side has wealthy individuals standing on tall stacks of coins, while the other side shows poorer people on much smaller stacks.
migration
noun.
The movement of people or animals from one place to another, often over long distances, typically for reasons such as seeking better living conditions, work, safety, or climate.
Example: There was a mass migration of poverty-stricken farmers into the cities.
fr: migration
The illustration shows a group of people walking together, carrying their belongings. The background includes symbols like suitcases, birds flying, and abstract shapes, representing movement and change.
non-governmental organizations
noun phrase
organisation à but non lucratif, souvent privée, qui agit indépendamment des gouvernements et des institutions internationales.
Example: Provides medical care in conflict zones and other areas with limited access to healthcare.
fr: organisations non gouvernementales
The infographic illustrates the various sources of funding for non-governmental organizations (NGOs). It categorizes funding into three main sources: fundsforngos.org +1 fundsforngos.org +1 Government Grants: Financial support provided by national or local go
poverty
noun.
It describes the state of being poor or lacking.
Example: ''The children's school had a severe poverty of resources, making it difficult for them to receive a proper education."
fr: pauvreté
The image is an isometric illustration showing poverty. It depicts a small, run-down house with broken windows and a person sitting outside looking sad or worried. The surrounding environment looks bleak, symbolizing hardship and economic struggle.
racism
noun
the belief that different races possess distinct characteristics, abilities, or qualities, especially so as to distinguish them as inferior or superior to one another.
Example: The pervasive nature of racism has created deep social divisions.
fr: racisme
The image shows two stylized faces—one light-skinned, one dark-skinned—surrounded by colorful squares. It represents MIT’s use of data science to fight systemic racism.
refugee crisis
noun.
a person who has been forced to leave their country in order to escape war, persecution, or natural disaster.
Example: The refugee crisis has strained resources in the host country.
fr: crise des réfugiés
The image shows a group of refugees, often including families with children, carrying their belongings and walking together. They may appear tired or worried, sometimes in crowded or harsh conditions like border crossings or camps.
social justice
noun
justice in terms of the distribution of wealth, opportunities, and privileges within a society.
Example: Social justice aims for a fair and equitable society where all individuals have equal opportunities and rights. It's about ensuring everyone benefits from society's resources and institutions, addressing systemic inequalities and injustices.
fr: justice sociale
he image is a colorful pie chart illustrating different areas of social justice investing. Each section represents a cause, such as: Education Affordable Housing Healthcare Racial Justice Clean Energy
social movements
noun
It a organized efforts by groups to achieve social or political change, either by promoting or resisting it.
Example: The Civil Rights Movement was a powerful social movement that challenged racial segregation in the United States.
fr: mouvements sociaux
The photograph depicts a group of suffragists standing in a picket line outside the White House in 1917. They are holding banners with messages advocating for women's right to vote, such as
sustainability
noun.
Sustainability, a word that is increasingly bandied about, particularly with the uptake of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the growing awareness of their ambitions
Example: the company's commitment to sustainability is reflected in its eco-friendly practices."
fr: durabilité
The image shows green leaves or a small plant growing from the soil, often with a bright sky or hands gently holding the plant. It symbolizes growth, care for the environment, and the importance of preserving natural resources for future generations.