Sociology Basics and Concepts

Study Notes

Sociology is the study of society and human behavior, originating in the 18th century with French philosopher Auguste Comte aiming for a systematic study of society and its issues.
Sociology today differs from its origins but remains the scientific study of society and human behavior, examining everything from macro-level political questions to micro-level interactions.
Societies are complex entities encompassing culture, politics, and economics, influencing individuals' actions and choices, such as going to college or enjoying different forms of entertainment.
Sociology stands out from other social sciences by examining patterns and behaviors across various locations and levels of society, aiming for an objective understanding through systematic observations.
The sociological perspective involves seeing the general through the specific and viewing the strange in the familiar, analyzing social behaviors in broader social contexts.
Sociologists study societal norms, roles, and power dynamics, highlighting the importance of understanding social positions based on factors like race, gender, class, and religion.
Individual choices and behaviors are influenced by one's social location, affecting interactions within society and shaping perceptions of what is considered normal or acceptable.- Some groups enjoy legal rights and privileges that others do not, such as same-sex couples who could not legally marry in America a few years ago, impacting their social standing and educational opportunities.
Social location influences what individuals learn about society, affecting decisions like attending college based on social class upbringing.
Social location can contribute to the marginalization of certain social groups, especially evident in job interviews where African-origin names receive fewer callbacks compared to ordinary names with identical resumes.
Marginalized groups often occupy positions outside centers of power, facing discrimination based on race, ethnicity, nationality, religion, or other factors.
Social power dynamics impact individuals' abilities to display affection publicly, with marginalized groups often facing social consequences for their relationships.
Sociology aims to understand and address various types of power inequalities, including economic, political, racial, and social power imbalances.
Sociology emerged during times of economic, social, and political upheaval in Europe in the late 18th and 19th centuries, coinciding with industrialization and rapid urbanization.
The field of sociology focuses on understanding society at all levels and the interactions between them, aiming to shed light on social phenomena and inform policy-making for societal improvement.