CHAPTER 1 - Introduction to Sociology and Key Theorists

Aspects of social life that shape our actions as individuals, such as the state of the economy or the influence of religion.

The idea that social life can be studied as rigorously as objects or events in nature.

A view of society as a set of independent parts, each of which can be studied separately.

Social cohesion that results from the various parts of a society functioning as an integrated whole.

The idea that societies exert social constraint over their members' actions.

The belief that society is more than the sum of individual acts; studying social structures unveils characteristics beyond individual actions.

The idea that studying social structures allows us to understand characteristics that go beyond individual actions.

The concept that society, as a whole, exists beyond individual actions and can be studied independently.

The ability to see how personal experiences and troubles are shaped by larger social forces. Understanding that personal problems are often rooted in broader social contexts.

A way of thinking that challenges common sense assumptions and encourages questioning the taken-for-granted. It helps distinguish between biological and socially constructed aspects of our lives.

A framework or pattern of social relationships, institutions, and norms that shape individual actions and interactions. It includes social institutions like family, education, and government.

The process of change in the social structure and organization of society, often driven by factors like technology, economics, and culture. It can lead to new social arrangements and ways of life.

Sociologist who explored the social structures of capitalism and industrialization. His work on class conflict and the role of capital in shaping society is influential.

Sociologist who studied the impact of industrialization on social cohesion and the division of labor. He argued that specialization and interdependence can create a sense of social order.

French political thinker who analyzed the social and political conditions of democracy. His work on democracy in America explored the role of social groups in shaping society.

Sociologist who explored the impact of large-scale organizations and bureaucracy on modern society. He argued that bureaucracy can both empower and disempower people.

The study of everyday human behavior in situations of face-to-face interaction.

The analysis of large-scale social systems, like the economy or political systems.

Microsociology focuses on individual interactions, while macrosociology examines larger social structures and systems.

The idea that multiple theoretical perspectives are needed to fully understand complex human behavior.

Different theoretical approaches provide a rich source of ideas for research and stimulate new thinking in sociology.

The influence of large-scale social systems on everyday life.

The study of long-term processes of social change, like industrialization.

Although seeming distinct, micro and macro analysis are closely connected. Macro analysis helps explain the context of everyday life.

A French sociologist who argued that society exerts a powerful influence on our actions, shaping our thoughts and behaviors. Durkheim believed that society's influence is so strong that it can even lead to social facts like suicide, which is not simply a matter of individual choice.

A German philosopher and sociologist who argued that the main driver of modern development is the expansion of capitalism. Marx believed that capitalism creates a system of class inequality, where a small ruling class exploits the labor of the working class.

A German sociologist who argued that the main driver of modern development is the rationalization of social and economic life. Weber believed that Western societies have developed uniquely because of their emphasis on rationality, efficiency, and bureaucracy.

A type of organization characterized by a hierarchical structure, clear rules and regulations, and a focus on efficiency. Weber saw bureaucracy as a defining feature of modern society, enabling large organizations to function smoothly but also posing challenges for democratic participation.

The idea that sociology can be a science, but it must be different from the natural sciences because human beings are thoughtful and meaningful beings who react to the world around them. Weber argued that sociology should focus on understanding the subjective meanings that people assign to their actions.

This refers to the underrepresentation of women and racial minorities in the field of sociology during its early development. Even the founding fathers of sociology often overlooked the experiences of these groups, even as they were theorizing about inequality and power.

A perspective in sociology that emphasizes the importance of face-to-face interaction in shaping social structures and institutions. Micro interactions help us understand how broader social patterns emerge.

A perspective in sociology that examines how social structures, like institutions and social classes, function to maintain order and stability in society. It looks at the larger social system's impact on individuals.

A theoretical approach that assumes individuals make rational decisions based on weighing costs and benefits, ultimately seeking to maximize their own self-interest.

The study of small-scale social interactions, such as conversations, gestures, and group dynamics.

The study of large-scale social structures, systems, and institutions, such as the economy, government, and culture.

Micro and Macro levels of analysis are interconnected. Micro-level interactions can shape macro-level structures, and macro-level structures can influence micro-level interactions.

The sociological perspective that highlights the unequal power dynamics and systemic disadvantages faced by women in society. It aims to understand how gender inequalities shape social interactions, institutions, and individuals' lives.

The view that many academic disciplines, including sociology, have traditionally focused on male experiences and perspectives, neglecting or marginalizing women's voices and experiences.

The study of gender relations, encompassing social interactions, societal expectations, and power structures between men and women.

The unequal distribution of resources, opportunities, and power between men and women that creates disadvantages for women in various societal contexts.

The argument that gender differences, roles, and inequalities are not inherent or natural but are socially constructed through cultural norms, beliefs, and practices.

The concept that individuals and social structures are influenced by a combination of gender, race, and class, leading to complex and intersecting forms of inequality.

A theoretical approach highlighting the unequal distribution of power among social groups and emphasizing the need for social change to address these imbalances.