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# Introduction to Sociology ## 1.1 Sociology: Definition and Nature Sociology is the science of society. It studies social relationships and society. We study social relationships, its forms, varieties and patterns, as well as social groups, social structure, social status, social norms, social pr...

# Introduction to Sociology ## 1.1 Sociology: Definition and Nature Sociology is the science of society. It studies social relationships and society. We study social relationships, its forms, varieties and patterns, as well as social groups, social structure, social status, social norms, social problems, the changing nature of society and a number of other things. Sociology focuses on stability and change in society, evolution and revolution as well. ## 1.2 Emergence and Scope of Sociology Sociology emerged as an independent and separate discipline only around the middle of the 19th century. The emergence of Sociology, no doubt has changed the approach to the study of human society. It became a distinct, unique, and young social science. ## 1.3 Importance of Sociology The major concern of Sociology is society, particularly human society, hence it is popularly known as the science of society. It has acquired a distinct status for itself. Today, its importance and practical usefulness is widely recognized all over the world. Sociology is also concerned with the life and activities of human beings. It studies the origin and development of human society - its structure and functions. It determines the relationship and interdependence between different elements of social life. It focuses on stability and change in society, evolution and revolution as well. Sociology is an independent social science which stands on scientific inquiry of social phenomena. In short, Sociology is the science of social relationships and social behavior. ## 1.1 Sociology: Definition and Nature Sociology is the science of society. It studies social relationships and society. We study social relationships, its forms, varieties and patterns, as well as social groups, social structure, social status, social norms, social problems, the changing nature of society and a number of other things. We shall begin with a very simple question: "What is Sociology?" The answer is also very simple: "Sociology is a study of man in society" or "Sociology is a scientific study of social events in society." To understand the exact and scientific definition of Sociology, we first have to take into account how the word "Sociology" is derived, i.e., the etymology of the word "Sociology". The French philosopher Auguste Comte is considered to be the "Father of Sociology." He is accredited with coining the term Sociology, in 1839. He wrote the book "Positive Philosophy" and in its fourth volume he mentioned for the first time, the word "Sociology." Sociology is composed of two different words; a Latin word "Socius" meaning