Introduction to Sociology

Introduction to Anthropology & Sociology (Sociology)

• Sociology is the scientific study of society and human social behavior.
• The term "sociology" is derived from the Greek word "logos," meaning "study of," and the Latin word "socius," meaning "being with others."
• Sociologists study various aspects of social life, encompassing behaviors in large organizations and small groups, deviant behavior, and characteristics of political and religious institutions, as well as social movements.
• They also examine the explanations behind various behaviors.
• An example is observing people at a football game, focusing on the people rather than the game itself.

Social Sciences

• Social sciences strive to objectively study the social world, which is sometimes referred to as "second nature."
• Social sciences are divided into specialized fields based on subject matter and specific focuses.

Defining Science

• Science encompasses bodies of knowledge attained through methods based on systematic observation.
• Natural science focuses on the physical features of nature and their interactions and changes.
• Social sciences focus on the social features of humans and their interactions and changes.

Natural Science vs. Social Science

• Natural science, a branch of science, deals primarily with the physical world.
• Social science is the study of human society and relationships.
• Natural science often utilizes scientific methods exclusively, while social science may also use other methods beyond scientific methods.

Anthropology vs. Sociology

• Anthropology studies humanity holistically, covering all aspects of humans, from physical features to artifacts (archeology).
• Sociology focuses specifically on society.
• Anthropology often centers on historical concepts, looking at people and ideas from the past.
• Sociology frequently explores current ideas and issues in contemporary society, including relationships with the future.
• Anthropology frequently studies tribal societies and colonized peoples.
• Sociology often focuses on urban cultures.

Example Situations (Anthropology vs. Sociology)

• Historical examples in anthropology demonstrate the role of women in housework and child-rearing. Contemporary examples in sociology highlight women pursuing careers as well as being mothers.
• In anthropology, children are primarily cared for within their family units. Conversely, in sociology, societal factors such as unwanted pregnancies due to economic or social issues are examined.
• Educational practices (e.g., corporal punishment) and issues relating to cultural beliefs and barriers are anthropological concepts. The sociological lens examines the consequences of these concepts within the context of society.
• Communication methods (e.g., the use of alibata and stone tools) are relevant from an anthropological perspective, while sociology looks at the current use of modern tools and languages.

Defining Sociology

• Sociology can be defined as the scientific study of society and human social behavior.
• It's derived from the Greek word "logos" (study of) and Latin word "socis" (being with others).

Doing Sociology

• Doing sociology encompasses reflection, analysis, action, and understanding.

The Story of an Elephant and Related Disciplines

• The interconnectedness of psychology, anthropology, economics, politics, and sociology are shown.

Political Science, Economics, and Anthropology

• Political science examines decision-making systems and governance within a society.
• Economics analyses trade, market organization, and resource distribution.
• Anthropology studies human culture and social practices, often focusing on pre-literate societies, their origin, cultural adaptations and development.

Sociology's Key Insights

• Human beings cannot be understood outside the context of society.
• Society shapes individual behavior by establishing social constructs and interactions.
• Societal interactions, including rituals and traditions, are patterned.

Sociology and Common Sense

• Sociologists challenge common assumptions and analyze data critically, unlike people who rely on common sense.
• Sociological research tests findings against other data and established theories.

Valid Sociological Topics

• Sociologists investigate diverse facets of human behavior, irrespective of whether the behavior is routine, unusual, or even reprehensible.
• All aspects of human behavior are considered legitimate subjects of sociological research.

Areas of Sociology

• Sociology encompasses various fields of study, from "Sociology of economy" and "Sociology of politics" to "Sociology of religion," family studies, urban sociology, rural sociology, law, medicine, linguistics, and industrial sociology, as well as sociology of development, death, bereavement, and gerontology.
• Other related areas include medical sociology, applied sociology, demography, deviance and criminology, social structures and institutions, social statistics, and social research methods.
• Sociology also includes areas like human ecology, social inequalities, and ethnic relations.

Career Opportunities

• Sociology graduates can pursue diverse careers in business, government, the justice system, education, and community services.
• Career options include bankers, business analysts, consumer relations specialists, employees, administrators, teachers, and counselors, among others.

Conclusion

• Sociologists seek to understand why people behave the way they do, forming groups, engaging in work and conflict, and participating in social interactions.