Introduction to Sociology

INTRODUCTION TO SOCIOLOGY Opening Question:  "Have you ever wondered why people in different cultures behave so differently, yet they all share certain common experiences? Or why some behaviours are accepted in one society but not in another? Sociology helps us explore these...

INTRODUCTION TO SOCIOLOGY Opening Question:  "Have you ever wondered why people in different cultures behave so differently, yet they all share certain common experiences? Or why some behaviours are accepted in one society but not in another? Sociology helps us explore these questions." What is Sociology?  Sociology is the study of society, social behaviour, and the ways in which individuals and groups interact within larger social structures. It investigates how societal influences shape people's lives, and in turn, how people shape society Definition Sociology is the scientific study of society and human behaviour. Sociologists seek to understand how social forces, such as family, culture, media, and institutions (like schools or governments), shape the behaviour of individuals and groups. It focuses on how society functions, how individuals relate to one another, and how larger social structures impact our daily lives.  Example: "Sociology helps us understand why some people might behave differently in groups, or how societal expectations (such as gender norms) influence our behaviour. For example, consider how people behave at a concert or a protest: the behaviour is different because of the social setting and the shared expectations that come with it."  Key Point: Sociology is not just about studying individuals but about understanding how larger societal forces shape individual behaviour. Question  "Canyou think of a time when you followed a group behaviour without really thinking about it? What influenced your decision?" Historical Development of Sociology  Early Thinkers and Founders: Sociology emerged as a discipline in the 19th century, largely in response to societal changes such as industrialization, urbanization, and political upheaval.  Auguste Comte: Known as the "father of sociology," Comte coined the term "sociology" and advocated for the scientific study of society. He believed that by applying the scientific method to social phenomena, society could be improved.  Karl Marx: Marx focused on the conflicts between social classes. He believed that economic systems and class struggles were the foundation of social order and change. Marx’s ideas about capitalism and inequality remain central to sociological theory.  Émile Durkheim: Durkheim’s work focused on social cohesion and how societies maintain order. He examined the role of social institutions like religion and education in creating solidarity.  Max Weber: Weber contributed to understanding how ideas and values influence society. His concept of "Verstehen" (understanding) emphasized the importance of understanding individuals’ subjective experiences in social contexts. Question  "Why do you think the study of society became important in the 19th century? What societal changes do you think might have prompted the birth of sociology?"  The study of society became particularly important in the 19th century due to massive social, political, and economic transformations that reshaped human life. Several key factors contributed to the emergence of sociology as a distinct discipline:  Industrial Revolution  Urbanization  Political Revolutions  Rise of Capitalism  Scientific Advancements  Colonial Expansion and Globalization