Sociology 101

Sociology

Definition: Sociology is the scientific study of human social behavior, relationships, and institutions.

Key Concepts:

• Sociological Imagination: The ability to see the relationship between individual experiences and the broader social structure.
• Social Structure: The pattern of social relationships and institutions that shape human behavior.
• Social Institutions: Organized systems that provide structure and order to society, such as family, education, and government.

Theoretical Perspectives:

• Functionalism: Views society as a system of interconnected parts that work together to maintain social order.
  • Emphasizes social cohesion, stability, and functional integration.
• Conflict Theory: Views society as a system of conflicting groups and interests, with power and resources being the main source of conflict.
  • Emphasizes social inequality, conflict, and change.
• Symbolic Interactionism: Views society as a system of symbols, meanings, and interactions that shape human behavior.
  • Emphasizes the role of language, symbols, and social interactions in shaping social reality.

Research Methods:

• Quantitative Research: Uses statistical analysis and numerical data to study social phenomena.
• Qualitative Research: Uses non-numerical data, such as observations, interviews, and texts, to study social phenomena.
• Mixed-Methods Research: Combines both quantitative and qualitative approaches to study social phenomena.

Sociological Topics:

• Social Inequality: The study of unequal distribution of resources, opportunities, and outcomes among individuals and groups.
• Social Change: The study of transformations and developments in society over time.
• Deviance and Crime: The study of behavior that violates social norms and laws.
• Family and Marriage: The study of family structures, relationships, and dynamics.
• Education: The study of the social institution of education and its impact on society.

Famous Sociologists:

• Emile Durkheim: Known for his work on social solidarity, anomie, and the role of education in society.
• Karl Marx: Known for his work on conflict theory, class struggle, and the role of economics in shaping society.
• Max Weber: Known for his work on bureaucracy, social action, and the role of power in society.