Introduction to Sociology Lecture Notes PDF

LECTURE NOTES For Health Science Students Introduction to Sociology Zerihun Doda, M.A. Debub University In collaboration with the Ethiopia Public Health Training Initiative, The Carter Center, the Ethiop...

LECTURE NOTES For Health Science Students Introduction to Sociology Zerihun Doda, M.A. Debub University In collaboration with the Ethiopia Public Health Training Initiative, The Carter Center, the Ethiopia Ministry of Health, and the Ethiopia Ministry of Education June 2005  Funded under USAID Cooperative Agreement No. 663-A-00-00-0358-00. Produced in collaboration with the Ethiopia Public Health Training Initiative, The Carter Center, the Ethiopia Ministry of Health, and the Ethiopia Ministry of Education. Important Guidelines for Printing and Photocopying Limited permission is granted free of charge to print or photocopy all pages of this publication for educational, not-for-profit use by health care workers, students or faculty. All copies must retain all author credits and copyright notices included in the original document. Under no circumstances is it permissible to sell or distribute on a commercial basis, or to claim authorship of, copies of material reproduced from this publication. ©2005 by Zerihun Doda All rights reserved. Except as expressly provided above, no part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without written permission of the author or authors. This material is intended for educational use only by practicing health care workers or students and faculty in a health care field. PREFACE Sociology is a discipline that belongs to what conventionally is called the social science. The discipline plays a leading role in the social sciences. The term sociology literally means the science of society; for the term itself in its direct sense denotes that. Sociology as an academic discipline arose in the first half of 19th century (in 1837, to mention the exact year) as a special science dedicated to unravel the fundamental laws governing the societal phenomena and human social relationship with primary interest in analyzing the problems and societies of the modern, western world. It has, thus, conventionally been accepted to associate sociology with the study of the modern, industrialized societies of western world. Health science students learning this discipline have a great advantage of gaining fresh insights and practical benefits in their personal lives and professional practices. Sociology along with other sisterly disciplines such as anthropology, economics, social psychology, human/ cultural geography, history and political sciences has now become an essential component of i the health and medical sciences curricula in universities and other training institutions abroad. Following this example, similar institutions in Ethiopia have also included this course in their curricula. These lecture notes on introductory sociology are prepared for the health and medical sciences students in institutions of higher learning in Ethiopia. Its purpose is to provide the students with basic ideas and knowledge in the science of sociology. By learning the materials presented in this lecture notes, it is believed that students will be able to understand and appreciate the basic issues, principles and approaches of sociology. Students may also gain an indirect benefit of appreciating the social, cultural, and behavioral dimensions of health and disease. Specifically, the main learning objective of introduction to sociology is to familiarize the students with the basic ideas, issues, concepts and principles of sociology. Students will be able to describe the meaning, scope, methods, history and importance of sociology, and its relations to other disciplines. The students will also be able to appreciate the relevance of sociology in their ii personal and future professional practice. A brief discussion of the survey of social problems in contemporary Ethiopian society will also help them understand their nature, causes and types; and their relations to health and disease. The lecture notes are organized into seven chapters: the First Chapter introduces important introductory issues such as the definition, subject- matter, theories, history importance and basic research methods of sociology, and its relationship to other disciplines. Chapter Two discusses the concepts of society and culture that are central to sociology. In Chapter Three, the concept of socialization is discussed. Here, the meaning, bases, necessity, goals and types of socialization are important issues of the chapter. Chapter Four deals with some aspects of social organization and social interaction. Three important dimensions of social processes, namely, social stratification, social mobility and social change will be discussed in Chapter Five, while an overview of social pathologies (focusing on Ethiopia) and methods of social action and intervention will be dealt in the Sixth and Seventh Chapters, respectively. iii Each chapter begins with learning objectives, ends with a chapter summary and has review questions. Inside the text, there are illustrative boxes, tables and figures which are meant to aid the students in utilizing the notes more effectively. Throughout the text, key terms and concepts are highlighted in bold and they are put in glossary section for easy reference. Important references used in preparing these lecture notes are also cited in the text and they are put in bibliographical section. However, it is advisable to use the lecture notes as complementary materials. Students should refer to the textbooks and other references for detailed and richer knowledge. The author wishes an enjoyable and fruitful reading for the students. iv ACKNOWLEDGMENTS These lecture notes are prepared with the financial assistance made by The Carter Center. I, thus, first of all wish to thank The Caret Center. I also want to thank the College of Health Sciences, Debub University, for giving me the chance to participate in preparing these lecture notes. My appreciation also goes to Ato Alemante Amera, my colleague in the College for his constructive comment on the material, during the intra-institutional review meeting. I also wish to extend my deepest thanks to inter-institutional reviewers Ato Woubshet Demewoz, Jimma University; Ato Abraraw Tesfaye, Gondar University; Fasika Melesse, Defense University College and Dr Mesfin Adissie, Addis Ababa University, Medical Faculty. They have constructively contributed to the lecture notes. v Last but not least, I want to express my deep gratitude to the national reviewers: Dr Gebre Yntiso and Dr Teketel Abebe of the Department of Sociology and Anthropology, who spared their precious time to review these lecture notes. They have made valuables comments I say, “thank you very much!” I finally want to assure all the reviewers who contributed to this teaching material that all of your relevant and precious comments are well taken and incorporated into this final version. Zerihun D. Doffana, MA, Social Anthropology June 2005 vi  TABLE OF CONTENTS Preface............................................................................. i Acknowledgement............................................................. v Table of Contents............................................................. vii List of Illustrative Boxes, List Tables and List of Figures. xiv CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION Learning Objectives......................................................... 1 1.1. Definition and Subject Matter of Sociology............... 2 1.1.1. What is Sociology?................................... 2 1.1.2. Brief Historical Overview............................ 6 1.1.3. Subject Matter, Scope and Concerns of Sociology.................................................... 14 1.1.4. Levels of Sociological Analysis and Fields of Specializations in Sociology...................... 16 1.1.5. Major Theoretical Perspectives................. 20 1.2. The Significance of Learning Sociology................... 34 1.3. Sociological Research Methods................................ 38 1.3.1. The Scientific Method................................ 38 1.3.2. Steps in Sociological Research............... 41 1.4. The Relationship between Sociology and Other Disciplines................................................................ 55 1.5. Chapter Summary..................................................... 57 Review Questions........................................................... 60 vii CHAPTER TWO: SOCIETY AND CULTURE Learning Objectives......................................................... 61 2.1. The Concept of Society:............................................. 62 2.1.1. Definition.................................................... 62 2.1.2. Basic Features of Society.......................... 64 2.1.3. Conceptualizing Society at Various Levels 66 2.1.4. Types of Society......................................... 67 2.2 The Concept of Culture............................................... 69 2.2.1 Definition..................................................... 69 2.2.2. Basic Characteristics of Culture................. 72 2.2.3. Elements of Culture................................... 76 2.2.4. Cultural Variability and Explanations......... 83 2.2.5. Ethno-centrism and Cultural Relativism and Culture Shock...................................... 86 2.2.6. Cultural Universals, Alternatives and Specialties................................................. 90 2.2.7. The Concepts of Culture Lag and Culture Lead............................................................ 94 2.2.8. Global Culture an Cultural Imperialism...... 95 2.3 Chapter Summary...................................................... 96 Review Questions............................................................ 98 viii CHAPTER THREE: SOCIALIZATION Learning Objectives......................................................... 99 3.1. The Concept of Socialization: Definition and Necessity.... 100 3.2 Goals of Socialization.................................................. 102 3.3. Human Biological Bases of Socialization.................. 104 3.4. Modes of Social Learning.......................................... 107 3.5. Patterns of Socialization............................................. 110 3.6. Types of Socialization............................................... 111 3.6.1. Primary or Childhood Socialization........... 112 3.6.2. Secondary or Adult Socialization.............. 113 3.6.3. Re-socialization and De-socialization....... 114 3.6.4. Anticipatory of Socialization...................... 116 3.6.5. Reverse Socialization............................... 116 3.7. Agents and Components of Socialization................. 117 3.8. Multiple and Contradictory Influences of Socialization 120 3.9. Chapter Summary.................................................... 121 Review Questions........................................................... 124 CHAPTER FOUR: SOCIAL ORGANIZATION AND SOCIAL INTERACTION Learning Objectives......................................................... 125 4.1. The Concept of Social Organization.......................... 126 4.2. Social Groups............................................................ 128 4.2.1. Definition of a Social Group....................... 128 4.2.2. Basic Features of Social Groups.............. 129 ix  4.2.3. Classification of Social Groups................. 130 4.2.4. Quasi-Social Groups................................. 134 4.3. Social Interaction and Relationship............................ 138 4.3.1. Social Status and Social Roles................. 139 4.3.2. Social Interactions in Everyday Life........... 142 4.4. Social Institutions...................................................... 147 4.4.1. Definition and Main Features of Social Institutions................................................ 147 4.4.2. Major Types and Functions of Social Institution.................................................. 148 4.5. The Concept of Social Control................................... 154 4.5.1. Definition and Necessity........................... 154 4.5.2. Types of Social Control............................. 156 4.6. Chapter Summary..................................................... 157 Review Questions............................................................ 160 CHAPTER FIVE: SOCIAL PROCESSES Learning Objectives......................................................... 162 5.1. The Concept of Social Process................................. 163 5.2. Modes of Social Processes....................................... 164 5.2.1. Competition............................................... 164 5.2.2. Cooperation............................................... 165 5.2.3. Conflict....................................................... 165 5.2.4. Accommodation........................................ 166 5.2.5. Assimilation............................................... 166 x 5.3. Social Stratification.................................................... 167 5.3.1. Definition................................................... 167 5.3.2. The Importance of Studying Social Stratification.............................................. 169 5.3.3. Theories of Social Stratification................ 170 5.3.4. Forms of Social Stratification.................... 171 5.3.5. Consequences of Social Stratification on the Lives of Individuals.................................... 176 5.4. Social Mobility........................................................... 177 5.4.1. Definition of Social Mobility....................... 177 5.4.2. Types of Social Mobility............................ 179 5.4.3. Avenues to Social Mobility........................ 181 5.4.4. Barriers to Social Mobility......................... 183 5.5. Social Change.......................................................... 184 5.5.1. Definition and Basic Features................... 184 5.5.2. Theories of Social Change........................ 186 5.5.3. Factors That Facilitate and Hinder Positive Social Change........................................... 189 5.6. Chapter Summary..................................................... 190 Review Questions........................................................... 194 xi CHAPTER SIX: AN OVERVIEW OF SOCIAL PATHOLOGIES Learning Objectives......................................................... 196 6.1. The Concept of Social Pathology.............................. 197 6.2. The Universality and Locality of Some Social Pathologies.............................................................. 199 6.3. The Concepts of Social Deviance and Crime........... 200 6.4. A Survey of Social Pathologies in Ethiopia............... 202 6.4.1. Vulnerability to Famine and the Problem of Food Insecurity................................................ 203 6.4.2. Prostitution...................................................... 205 6.4.3. Unemployment............................................... 207 6.4.4. The Youth and Drug Addiction........................ 208 6.4.5. Rural to Urban Migration, the Refugee Problem and Health...................................................... 209 6.4.6. Population Explosions and Ecological Degradation.................................................... 214 6.4.7. Growth of Urbanization, Urban Poverty, Housing Problem, Homelessness & Begging. 215 6.5. Chapter Summary..................................................... 218 Review Questions............................................................ 220 xii CHPATER SEVEN: METHODS OF SOCIAL ACTION AND INTERVENTION Learning Objectives......................................................... 221 7.1 What Is Social Action?................................................ 222 7.2. Methods of Social Work............................................ 223 7.2.1. Main Concern of Social Work................... 223 7.2.2. Basic Principles.......................................... 225 7.2.3. Types of Methods of Social Work.............. 226 7.3 The Limitations and Challenges of Social Welfare Programs..................................................... 230 7.4. Planned Social Change, Client System and Change Agents........................................................ 232 7.5. The Role of Health Professionals as Change Agents 233 7.6. Chapter Summary..................................................... 235 Review Questions............................................................ 237 Glossary............................................................................ 239 References....................................................................... 268 xiii  LIST ILUSTRATIVE BOXES, TABLES AND FIGURES Illustrative Boxes Box 1.1. A simple definition of sociology...................... 3 Box 1.2.Distinguishing between society and culture.... 4 Box 1.3. Pioneering founders of sociology................... 14 Box 1.4. Levels of analysis in sociology...................... 17 Box 1.5. Inductive vs. deductive approaches............... 39 Box 2.1. Basic features of culture............................... 76 Box 2.2. Elements of culture....................................... 83 Box 3.1. The five human biological basis of socialization 107 Box 3.2. Major types of socialization............................ 117 Box 4.1. Major social institutions and their primary functions....................................................... 154 Box 5.1. Modes of social processes............................ 167 Box 5.2. Types of social mobility.................................. 183 Box 6.1.Social problems in Ethiopia............................ 217 Box 7.1. Three methods of social work........................ 229 xiv Tables Table 1.1. Summary of sociological theories............... 32 Table 2.1.A list of some cultural universals.................. 91 Table 3.1. Two modes of socialization....................... 111 Table 4.1. Types of social groups................................ 136 Figures Figure 1.1. Steps in sociological research................... 54 Figure 2.1 A diagrammatic representation of social norms......................................................... 82 Figure 5.1. Castes of Hindu Society of India................ 174 xv Introduction to Sociology CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION Learning Objectives At the end of this chapter, students will be able to: Define the term sociology; Describe the subject-matter, scope and basic concerns of sociology; Understand how sociology emerged and developed; Appreciate the personal and professional benefits derived from learning sociology; Understand the methods and approaches of sociology; Describe macro-sociology and micro-sociology; Appreciate the various views and concepts formulated by the founding fathers of sociology; Describe the relationship of sociology with other fields of study; and Appreciate the application of sociology in addressing contemporary societal problems. 1 Introduction to Sociology 1.1. Definition and Subject Matter of Sociology 1.1.1. What is Sociology? Before attempting to define what sociology is, les us look at what the popular conceptions of the discipline seem. As may be the case with other sciences, sociology is often misconceived among the populace. Though many may rightly and grossly surmise that sociology is about people, some think that it is all about “helping the unfortunate and doing welfare work, while others think that sociology is the same as socialism and is a means of bringing revolution to our schools and colleges” (Nobbs, Hine and Flemming, 1978:1). The first social scientist to use the term sociology was a Frenchman by the name of Auguste Comte who lived from 1798-1857. As coined by Comte, the term sociology is a combination of two words. The first part of the term is a Latin, socius- that may variously mean society, association, togetherness or companionship. The other word, logos, is of Greek origin. It literally means to speak about or word. However, the term is 2 Introduction to Sociology generally understood as study or science (Indrani, 1998). Thus, the etymological, literal definition of sociology is that it is the word or speaking about society. A simple definition here is that it is the study of society and culture. Box 1.1. A simple definition of sociology Sociology is the study of society Although the term “sociology” was first used by the French social philosopher august Comte, the discipline was more firmly established by such theorists as Emile Durkheim, Karl Marx and Max Weber (Nobbs, Hine and Flemming, 1978). Before going any further, let us note that the concepts “society and “culture” are central in sociology. While each concept shall be dealt with later in some detail, it appears to be appropriate here to help students differentiate between these two important concepts. Society generally refers to the social world with all its structures, institutions, organizations, etc around us, and specifically to a group of people who live within some 3 Introduction to Sociology type of bounded territory and who share a common way of life. This common way of life shared by a group of people is termed as culture (Stockard, 1997). Box 1.2. Distinguishing between society and culture Society: a group of people who live within some type of bounded territory and who share a common way of life Culture: is common way of life shared by a society or a group. Now, turning to the definitional issues, it is important that in addition to this etymological definition of the term, we need to have other substantive definitions. Thus, sociology may be generally defined as a social science that studies such kinds of phenomena as: The structure and function of society as a system; The nature, complexity and contents of human social behavior; The fundamentals of human social life; 4 Introduction to Sociology Interaction of human beings with their external environment; The indispensability of social interactions for human development; How the social world affects us, etc. A more formal definition of sociology may be that it is a social science which studies the processes and patterns of human individual and group interaction, the forms of organization of social groups, the relationship among them, and group influences on individual behavior, and vice versa, and the interaction between one social group and the other (Team of Experts, 2000). Sociology is the scientific study of society, which is interested in the study of social relationship between people in group context. Sociology is interested in how we as human beings interact with each other (the pattern of social interaction); the laws and principles that govern social relationship and interactions; the /influence of the social world on the individuals, and vice versa (Ibid.). It deals with a factually observable subject matter, depends upon empirical research, and involves 5 Introduction to Sociology attempts to formulate theories and generalizations that will make sense of facts (Giddens, 1982). Regarding the detective and expository nature the science, Soroka (1992:34) states that “Sociology is a debunking science; that is, it looks for levels of reality other than those presented in official interpretations of society and people’s common sense explanations of the social world. Sociologists are interested in understanding what is and do not make value judgments.” 1.1.2. Brief Historical Overview Sociology and other social sciences emerged from a common tradition of reflection of social phenomena; interest in the nature of human social behavior and society has probably always existed; however, most people in most past societies saw their culture as a fixed and god-given entity. This view gradually was replaced by more rational explanations beginning from the 17th century especially in Western Europe (Rosenberg, 1987). The sociological issues, questions and problems 6 Introduction to Sociology had been raised and discussed by the forerunners starting from the ancient Greek and Roman philosophers' and Hebrew prophets' times. Sociology as an academic science was thus born in 19th century (its formal establishment year being 1837) in Great Britain and Western Europe, especially in France and Germany, and it greatly advanced through out 19th and 20th centuries. The development of sociology and its current contexts have to be grasped in the contexts of the major changes that have created the modern world (Giddens, 1986). Further, sociology originated in 18th century philosophy, political economy and cultural history (Swingwood, 1991) The major conditions, societal changes, upheavals and social ferments that gave rise to the emergence and development of sociology as an academic science include the Industrial Revolution which began in Great Britain, the French Political Revolution of 1789, the Enlightenment and advances in natural sciences and 7 Introduction to Sociology technology. These revolutions had brought about significant societal changes and disorders in the way society lived in the aforementioned countries. Since sociology was born amidst the great socio-political and economic and technological changes of the western world, it is said to be the science of modern society. The pioneering sociologists were very much concerned about the great changes that were taking place and they felt that the exciting sciences could not help understand, explain, analyze and interpret the fundamental laws that govern the social phenomena. Thus sociology was born out of these revolutionary contexts. The founders or the pioneering sociologists are the following (Henslin and Nelson, 1995; Giddens, 1996; Macionis, 1997): Auguste Comte, French Social Philosopher (1798- 1857) Comte was the first social philosopher to coin and use the term sociology (Nobbs, Hine and Flemming, 1978). He was also the first to regard himself as a sociologist. 8 Introduction to Sociology He defined sociology as the scientific study of social dynamics and social static. He argued that sociology can and should study society and social phenomena following the pattern and procedures of the natural science. Comte believed that a theoretical science of society and the systematic investigation of human behavior were needed to improve society. He argued that the new science of society could and should make a critical contribution towards a new and improved human society. Comte defined sociology as the study of social dynamic and social static, the former signifying the changing, progressing and developmental dimensions of society, while the latter refers to the social order and those elements of society and social phenomena which tend to persist and relatively permanent, defying change. Karl Marx (German, 1818-1883) Marx was a world-renowned social philosopher, sociologist and economic historian. He made remarkable contributions to the development of various social sciences including sociology. He contributed greatly to sociological ideas. He introduced key 9 Introduction to Sociology concepts in sociology like social class, social class conflict, social oppression, alienation, etc. Marx, like Comte, argued that people should make active efforts to bring about societal reforms. According to Marx, economic forces are the keys to underestimating society and social change. He believed that the history of human society has been that of class conflict. He dreamed of, and worked hard towards realizing, a classless society, one in which there will be no exploitation and oppression of one class by another, and wherein all individuals will work according to their abilities and receive according to their needs. Marx introduced one of the major perspectives in sociology, called social conflict theory (Macionis, 1997) Harriet Martineau, British Sociologist (1802- 1876) At a time when women were greatly stereotyped and denied access to influential socio-political and academic arena, it is interesting to ha a female academic to be numbered among the pioneering sociologists. Harriet was interested in social issues and studied both in the United States and England. She came across with the 10 Introduction to Sociology writings of Comte and read them. She was an active advocate of the abolition of slavery and she wrote on many crosscutting issues such as racial and gender relations, and she traveled widely. She helped popularize the ideas and writings of Comte by translating them into English (Henslin and Nelson, 1995). Herbert Spencer, British Social Philosopher, (1820-1903) Spencer was a prominent social philosopher of the 19th century. He was famous for the organic analogy of human society. He viewed society as an organic system, having its own structure and functioning in ways analogous to the biological system. Spencer's ideas of the evolution of human society from the lowest ("barbarism") to highest form ("civilized") according to fixed laws were famous. It was called "Social Darwinism", which is analogous to the biological evolutionary model. Social Darwinism is the attempt to apply by analogy the evolutionary theories of plant and animal development to the explanation of human society and social phenomena (Team of Experts, 2000). 11 Introduction to Sociology Emile Durkheim, French Sociologist, (1858- 1917) Durkehiem was the most influential scholar in the academic and theoretical development of sociology. He laid down some of the fundamental principles, methods, concepts and theories of sociology; he defined sociology as the study of social facts. According to him, there are social facts, which are distinct from biological and psychological facts. By social facts, he meant the patterns of behavior that characterize a social group in a given society. They should be studied objectively. The job of a sociologist, therefore, is to uncover social facts and then to explain them using other social facts. Some regard Durkheim as the first sociologist to apply statistical methods to the study of social phenomena (Macionis, 1997; Clahoun, et al, 1994). Max Weber, German Sociologist (1864-1920) Weber was another prominent social scientist. According to him, sociology is the scientific study of human social action. Social action refers to any “action oriented to influence or influenced by another person or persons. It is not necessary for more than one person to 12 Introduction to Sociology be physically present for action to be regarded as social action….” (Team of Experts, 2000). It is concerned with the interpretive understanding of human social action and the meaning people attach to their own actions and behaviors and those of others. Weber was a renowned scholar who like Marx, wrote in several academic fields. He agreed with much Marxian theses but did not accept his idea that economic forces are central to social change. Weber argues that we cannot understand human behavior by just looking at statistics. Every activity and behavior of people needs to be interpreted. He argued that a sociologist must aim at what are called subjective meanings, the ways in which people interpret their own behavior or the meanings people attach their own behavior (Henslin and Nelson, 1995; Rosneberg, 1987). 13 Introduction to Sociology Box 1.3. Pioneering founders of sociology August Comte, French, 1798-1857; key concepts: social static and social dynamic Karl Marx, German, (1818-1883), key concepts: class conflict, alienation, historical materialism, etc Emile Durkheim, French, 1858-1917; key concept: social fact Max Weber, German, 1864=1920; key concepts: social action; subjective meanings Herbert Spencer, British, 1820-1903; key concept: social Darwinism Harriet Martineau, British, 1802-1876; active advocate of abolition of slavery and gender issues 1.1.3. Subject Matter, Scope and Concerns of Sociology The scope of sociology is extremely wide ranging, from the analysis of passing encounter between individuals on the street up to the investigation of global social processes The discipline covers an extremely broad range that includes every aspect of human social 14 Introduction to Sociology conditions; all types of human relationships and forms of social behavior (Indrani, 1998). Sociologists are primarily interested in human beings as they appear in social interaction and the effects of this interaction on human behavior. Such interaction can range from the first physical contacts of the new born baby with its mother to a philosophical discussion at an international conference, from a casual passing on the street to the most intimate of human relationships (World Book Encyclopedia 1994. Vol. 18, PP. 564-567). Sociologists are interested to know what processes lead to these interactions, what exactly occurs when they take place, and what their short run and long run consequences are. The major systems or units of interaction that interest sociologists are social groups such as the family or peer groups; social relationships, such as social roles and dyadic relationships, and social organizations such as governments, corporations and school systems to such territorial organizations as communities and schools (Broom and Selzinki, 1973). 15 Introduction to Sociology Sociologists are keen to understand, explain, and analyze the effect of social world, social environment and social interaction on our behavior, worldviews, lifestyle, personality, attitudes, decisions, etc., as creative, rational, intelligent members of society; and how we as such create the social reality. 1.1.4. Levels of Sociological Analysis and Fields of Specializations in Sociology There are generally two levels of analysis in sociology, which may also be regarded as branches of sociology: micro-sociology and macro- sociology (Henslin and Nelson, 1995). Micro-sociology is interested in small- scale level of the structure and functioning of human social groups; whereas macro-sociology studies the large-scale aspects of society. Macro-sociology focuses on the broad features of society. The goal of macro-sociology is to examine the large-scale social phenomena that determine how social groups are organized and positioned within the social structure. Micro-sociological level of analysis 16 Introduction to Sociology focuses on social interaction. It analyzes interpersonal relationships, and on what people do and how they behave when they interact. This level of analysis is usually employed by symbolic interactionist perspective. Some writers also add a third level of analysis called meso-level analysis, which analyzes human social phenomena in between the micro- and macro-levels. Reflecting their particular academic interest sociologists may prefer one form of analysis to the other; but all levels of analysis are useful and necessary for a fuller understanding of social life in society. Box 1.4. Levels of analysis in sociology Micro-sociology: Analyzing small scale social phenomena Macro-sociology: analyzing large-scale social phenomena Meso-sociology: analysis of social phenomena in between the micro- and macro- levels. 17 Introduction to Sociology Within these general frameworks, sociology may be divided into specific sub-fields on the basis of certain criteria. The most important fields of sociology can be grouped into six areas (World Book Encyclopedia, 1994: Vol. 18; Pp. 564-568). The Field of Social Organization and Theory of Social Order: focuses on institutions and groups, their formation and change, manner of functioning, relation to individuals and to each other. Social Control: Focuses on the ways in which members of a society influence one another so as to maintain social order. Social Change: Focuses on the way society and institutions change over time through technical inventions, cultural diffusion and cultural conflict, and social movements, among others. Social Processes: Focuses on the pattern in which social change takes place, and the modes of such processes. 18 Introduction to Sociology Social Groups: Focuses on how social groups are formed, structured, and how they function and change. Social Problems: Focuses on the social conditions which cause difficulties for a large number of persons and which the society is seeking to eliminate. Some of the problems may include: juvenile delinquency, crime, chronic alcoholism, suicide, narcotics addiction, racial prejudice, ethnic conflict, war, industrial conflict, slum, areas, urban poverty, prostitution, child abuse, problem of older persons, marital conflicts, etc. Currently, sociology has got quite several specific sub- divisions or fields of specialization in it: some of these include the following: criminology; demography; human ecology; political sociology; medical sociology; sociology of the family; sociology of sports; sociology of development; social psychology; socio- linguistics; sociology of education; sociology of religion; sociology of knowledge; sociology of art; sociology of science and 19 Introduction to Sociology technology; sociology of law; urban sociology; rural sociology; economic sociology; and industrial sociology. 1.1.5. Major Theoretical Perspectives in Sociology Sociology as science employs perspectives or theories to understand, explain, analyze and interpret social phenomena. To interpret social facts, they must be subjected to a theoretical framework. A theory may be defined as a general statement about how some parts of the world fit together and how they work (Macionis, 1997). Scupin and DeCorse (1995) define a theory as a set of interconnected hypotheses that offer general explanations for natural or social phenomena. It should also be noted that the terms “perspectives” and “schools of thought” are often used interchangeably with the term “theory”. 20 Introduction to Sociology There are three major theoretical perspectives in sociology that have provided an overall framework for sociological studies. These are structural- functionalism, social conflict theory and symbolic interactionism. There are also theories that have emerged challenging these major ones (see below). The Structural-Functionalist Theory This is one of the dominant theories both in anthropology and sociology. It is sometimes called functionalism. The theory tries to explain how the relationships among the parts of society are created and how these parts are functional (meaning having beneficial consequences to the individual and the society) and dysfunctional (meaning having negative consequences). It focuses on consensus, social order, structure and function in society. The structural-functionalist theory sees society as a complex system whose parts work together to promote solidarity and stability; it states that our social lives are guided by social structure, which are relatively stable patterns of social behavior (Macionis, 1997). Social 21 Introduction to Sociology structure is understood in terms of social function, which are consequences for the operations of society. All social structure contributes to the operation of society. The major terms and concepts developed by anthropologists and sociologists in this theory include (or the theory focuses on): order, structure, function (manifest or direct functions and latent or hidden, indirect functions), and equilibrium. Those hold this view ask such questions as: what hold society together? What keeps it steady? The Structural- functionalist theory pays considerable attention to the persistence of shared ideas in society. The functional aspect in the structural-functionalist theory stresses the role played by each component part in the social system, whereas the structural perspective suggests an image of society wherein individuals are constrained by the social forces, social backgrounds and by group memberships. Many of the great early founding sociologists such as August Comte, Emile Durkheim and Herbert Spencer and later American sociologists like Talkot Parsons and 22 Introduction to Sociology Robert K Merton. Structural -functionalist theorists in modern sociology are more likely to follow in the tradition of the writings of particularly Emile Durkheim, who is regarded as the pioneering proponent of this perspective (Hensiln and Nelson, 1995). After dominating sociology and anthropology for a long time, this theory was challenged by its main critics, notably those who proposed the social –conflict theory (see below). The theory was attacked for its emphasis on stability and order while neglecting conflict and changes which so vital in any society. The Social Conflict Theory This theory is also called Marxism; to indicate that the main impetus to the theory derives from the writings of Karl Marx This theory sees society in a framework of class conflicts and focuses on the struggle for scarce resources by different groups in a given society. It asks such questions as what pulls society apart. How does society change? The theory holds that the most important aspect of social order is the domination of some group by others, that actual or potential conflicts 23 Introduction to Sociology are always present in society. The writings of Karl Marx are generally in the spirit of conflict theory, and Marxism influences most of conflict theorists in modern sociology. The theory is useful in explaining how the dominant groups use their power to exploit the less powerful groups in society. Key concepts developed in this perspective include: conflict, complementation, struggle, power, inequality, and exploitation. Although this theory gained fame in recent decades, it came under sharp criticism, for its overemphasis on inequality and division, for neglecting the fact of how shared values and interdependence generate unity among members of society; it is also criticized for its explicit political goals. Another critique, which equally applies also to structural functionalism, is that it sees society in very broad terms, neglecting micro-level social realities (Macionis 1997). 24 Introduction to Sociology Symbolic Interactionism This theory was advanced by such American sociologists as Charles Horton Cooley (1864-1929) William I Thomas (1863-1947) and George Herbert Mead (1863-1931) in early 20th century. This perspective views symbols as the basis of social life. Symbols are things to which we attach meanings. The theory stresses the analysis of how our behaviors depend on how we define others and ourselves. It concentrates on process, rather than structure, and keeps the individual actor at the center. According to symbolic interactionism, the essence of social life and social reality is the active human being trying to make sense of social situations. In short, this theory calls attention to the detailed, person-oriented processes that take place within the larger units of social life (Calhoun et al, 1994; Henslin and Nelson, 1996; Soroka, 1995). As indicated above, there are contemporary sociological theories that have emerged in recent decades that have heavily influenced sociological and anthropological thinking. These include the following: 25 Introduction to Sociology Feminism This theory takes as its central theme the place and facts of women’s underprivileged status and their exploitation in a patriarchally dominated society. Feminist sociology focuses on the particular disadvantages, including oppression and exploitation faced by women in society. This theory ranges from liberal feminism, which recognizes inequalities but believes that reform can take place without a fundamental restructuring of the social system, to radical feminism, which advocates the fundamental need for societal change (Marcus and Ducklin, 1998: 32) Social Exchange Theory This theory focuses on “the costs and benefits which people obtain in social interaction, including money, goods, and status. It is based on the principle that people always act to maximize benefit. However, to receive benefits, there must always be an exchange process with others” (Marcus and Ducklin, 1996: 26) 26 Introduction to Sociology Public Choice Theory: This theory states that collective organizations such as political parties act rationally to maximize their own benefits. It argues that individual differences are best resolved by collective involvement within organizations. The role of the state is important in arbitrating between large-scale interests (Ibid, same page). Rational Choice Theory: This theory assumes that individuals will operate in rational way and will seek to benefit themselves in the life choices they make (ibid). Structuralism This theory denies any basis for humans being active, since human consciousness is no longer seen as the basis of meaning in language. Structuralism differs from the mainstream traditional theories in that it rejects objective social facts and a concept of society as an objective, external entity. It defines social reality in terms of the relations between events, not in terms of things and social facts. Its basic principle is that the observable is meaningful only in so far as it can be related to an underlying structure or order (Swingwood, 1984). 27 Introduction to Sociology The equivalent of structuralism in anthropology, advanced by its famous French structuralist anthropologist, Claude Levi-Strauss, states that “the origin of universal principles that order the ways in which we behave and think about the world is to be found in the structure of human thought.”(Howard and Dunaif- Hattis, 1992:373). The problem with this theory is that they view societies as static and do not help very much in explaining variation among societies. The theory treats culture as a given order and fails to explain the adaptive dimensions of culture. Post-Structuralism and Post-modernism: Post –structuralism: focuses on the power of language in constructing knowledge and identity. The writers in this field have emphasized the role of language in human life, how language dictates the thoughts we have, and how it constructs meanings for us. Post- structuralists argue that humans cannot arrive anything they can confidently call the (universal) truth. There is no link between the words (language) ideas, and the real world. It denies the sociological idea that our concepts 28 Introduction to Sociology have some relationship to the real world. It is not possible to arrive at a sociological truth, and such attempts are dangerous (Bliton, et al. 1996; Kirby, et al. 2000). Post-modernism: The basis of post-modernism was post-structuralism. Post-modernism is defined as a cultural and aesthetic phenomenon which mainly rejects order and progress, objective and universal truth; and supports the need for recognizing and tolerating different forms of reality. It tends to celebrate chaos and disorder, diversity and fragmentation in the modern global society rather than wanting to achieve order. This theory maintains that there is no ultimate reason in human life and existence (Bliton, et al. 1996; Kirby, et al. 2000). Postmodernists argue, “Power has become decentralized and fragmented in contemporary societies“ (Torres and Mitchel, 1998). The theorists of post- structuralism share a lost with post-modernists. 29 Introduction to Sociology A note on applying sociological theories to health, culture and society may be important here. Each of he above sociological theories may have its own views on medicine and society. But for the sake of brevity, I would just focus on the three major theories: Structural functionalism: the version of this theory as applied to medicine ad society may be termed as the “medical ecological approach. The structural functionalist theory views medicine and the systems of health care as important social institutions; and it focuses on the functions and roles played by the institution in maintaining odder and stability in society. The medical institutions whether scientific or traditional and the various practitioners exist to meet the needs of individuals and society (Henslin and Nelson, 1995). Symbolic interactionist theory: This theory as applied to medicine and society may be termed as the”cultural interpretationist approach. This approach focuses on the social and cultural constructions of health, illness and disease. 30 Introduction to Sociology According to this theory, illnesses and health are not just things that exist “out there”; they are productions of the complex social interactions; and health and illness are highly shaped by the manner in which people as actors give meanings to them and how the actors respond to them in socio-culturally sanctioned ways. Conflict theory: The equivalent of this theory in medical sociology and anthropology may be termed as “the critical” or “radical political economy” approach. It is an approach which stresses on the socio-economic inequality in power and wealth which in turn significantly affects the health status and access to health care facilities. Individuals, groups, communities and even nations thus tend to have unbalanced share of health resources; and these often leads to the unequal distribution of morbidity and mortality patterns among a given society; those in power and dominance enjoy better health and the marginalized groups suffer from the burden of diseases (Turner, 1987). 31  Introduction to Sociology Table 1.1. Summary of sociological theories S. Name of the What does it Key concepts Its weaknesses No. theory state? 1. Structural Sees society as a Consensus, Emphasis on Functionalism complex system social order, stability and order whose parts work structure and while neglecting together to promote function in conflict and solidarity and society. changes which so stability vital in any society 2. Social conflict Sees society in a Class conflict; For its theory framework of class alienation; overemphasis on conflicts and competition; inequality and focuses on the domination division, for struggle for scarce neglecting the fact resources by of how shared different groups in a values and given society interdependence generate unity among members of society; it is also criticized for its explicit political goals. 3. Symbolic Stresses the Symbols; Too much interactionism analysis of how our processes; emphasis on micro- behaviors depend interaction; level analysis; on how we define meaning neglect of larger others and social processes ourselves. It concentrates on process, rather than structure, and keeps the individual actor at the center. 32  Introduction to Sociology 4 Feminism Feminist sociology Women; Some extreme focuses on the gender; views such as particular exploitation; radical feminism disadvantages, male seem unrealistic including supremacy oppression and exploitation faced by women in society 5. Social Focuses on the - - Exchange costs and benefits theory which people obtain in social interaction, including money, goods, and status. It is based on the principle that people always act to maximize benefit. 6. Rational Assumes that -- -- choice theory individuals will operate in rational way and will seek to benefit themselves in the life choices they make 7. Structuralism Denies any basis Underlying Views societies as for humans being structures; static and do not active, since human language help very much in consciousness is explaining variation no longer seen as among societies; the basis of treats culture as a meaning in given order and language fails to explain the adaptive dimensions of culture. 33  Introduction to Sociology 8. Post- Argues that -- -- structuralism humans cannot arrive anything they can confidently call the (universal) truth. There is no link between the words (language) ideas, and the real world Post- Argues power has Modernity; Denial of objective, modernism become post- sociological decentralized and modernity; knowledge fragmented in subjective contemporary reality societies 1.2. The Significance of Learning Sociology Generally, learning sociology provides us with what sociologists call the sociological imagination. Sociological imagination is a particular way of looking at the world around us through sociological lenses. It is a way of looking at our experiences in light of what is going on in the social world around us. This helps us to appreciate the social and non-biological forces that affect, influence and shape our lives as individuals, groups, and communities (Giddens, 1982). Sociological 34 Introduction to Sociology imagination helps us look beyond individual psychology to the many and varied facets of social and cultural forces, and "the recurring patterns in peoples' attitudes and actions, and how these patterns vary across time, cultures and social groups." (Henslin and Nelson, 1995) Learning sociology helps us understand how social forces influence our goals, attitudes, behavior, and personality. We become more sensitive towards the social issues. Furthermore, learning sociology helps to cast aside our own biased assumptions, stereotypes and ethno-centric thinking and practices to become more critical, broad- minded and respectful in our interpersonal and inter- group relationships. By learning sociology, we can be more humane and people – centered; we give high value to human dignity. In general, sociology increases our self-knowledge. Learning sociology can provide us with self- enlightenment. When we learn sociology, we gain more knowledge about the conditions of our own lives, and about the way our society and social system function. As such knowledge increases, we can be more 35 Introduction to Sociology empowered to influence the direction of forces and circumstances that affect our lives. We can also be more responsive to the various policies set by governments; and can suggest our own policy initiatives and alternatives (Giddens, op cit). In addition to the aforementioned theoretical benefits, sociology has certain practical benefits. There is what we call applied sociology, the application of sociological knowledge, principles, methods, concepts and theories to provide the solutions to the contemporary social pathologies. Sociology plays practical roles to tackle social pathologies. Sociological knowledge is highly applicable in dealing with today's most crucial social problems, and in facilitating developmental activities in socioeconomic sectors. Before closing this section, it is important to note why health/ medical sciences students need to take a course in introductory sociology. The following are some of the arguments for the necessity of such a course: 36 Introduction to Sociology 1. Health, disease and illness are as much sociocultural in their nature as they are physical. 2. So far, despite certain steps being taken, the dominant trend in the medical/ health sciences training is to highly focus on the biomedical and ecological dimensions of health and disease. However, given the bio-psycho-social nature of human being and health, this is very partial. This restricted approach to health disease does not provide the students with appropriate and whole picture about the issue. Such highly narrow focus in the training of heath professionals and design of health policies and strategies is not appropriate. 3. In the objective realties of developing societies such as Ethiopia human health and well-being are deeply linked to sociocultural factors such as the entrenched poverty, the roles of traditional values and institutions in shaping people’s worldviews about health and disease. 37 Introduction to Sociology 1.3. Sociological Research Methods 1.3.1. The Scientific Method Inductive vs. Deductive Approaches Sociology is a science. As such, it is concerned with systematically observing and classifying facts, and establishing verifiable laws. It, like any other science employs scientific method, which is the source for scientific knowledge. The scientific method is a logical system used to evaluate data derived from systematic observation. The scientific method as a precise way of designing and conducting research consists of the following basic steps: “(1) establishing a hypothesis, a general statement based on observed facts; 2) determining ways to test the hypothesis, incorporating them in research design; 3) testing the hypothesis through research and further observation…” (Howard and Dunaif-Hattis, 1992:7) Sociology as a science employs the two very important approaches in research design and in the overall research framework: inductive methods and 38 Introduction to Sociology deductive method. Inductive method is a method by which the scientist first makes observation and collects data, on the basis of which he or she formulates hypothesis and theories (Scupin and DeCorse, 1995). The researcher tries to build theories from particular observations and instances. Induction moves from the particular to the general; where as deduction moves from the general to the particular. In deductive approach, the researcher attempts to derive specific assertions and claims from a general theoretical principle. In short, deductive approach in research goes from general theory to particular claims (Dooley, 1995:65-66). Box 1.5. Inductive vs. deductive approaches Inductive method is a method by which the scientist first makes observation and collects data, on the basis of which he or she formulates hypothesis and theories In deductive approach, the researcher attempts to derive specific assertions and claims from a general theoretical principle. 39 Introduction to Sociology As a science, the primary aim of sociology is doing research; to produce, accumulate, and disseminate scientific knowledge on society and social phenomena. However, there are some people who question the scientific status of sociology and other social sciences. They argue that sociology is not strictly science because its subject matter is very much complex. It is not possible to subject human behavior into laboratory manipulations. People have their own motives and hidden aspirations and other complex aspects. However, it is generally accepted that sociology is a science in the sense that its primary aim is doing scientific research to promote scientific knowledge. Sociology can and should employ the scientific methods. The scientific method is defined as a method of observing the world critically, empirically and rationally to collect and analyze data systematically to arrive at a scientific knowledge. 40 Introduction to Sociology 1.3.2. Steps in Sociological Research Generally, there are about seven steps in doing a sociological research. These steps are not, however, typical to sociology alone. It should also be noted that these steps are not fixed ones. Some steps may not necessarily be followed in some research projects. They steps may not necessarily be put in sequential order. 1. Identification of Research Problems The first step in doing sociological research (for that matter, any other research) is to come up with a research problem. Identification of research problem basically involves choosing a research topic. The ways and manners in which researchers identify a research problem and choose a topic vary according to various factors. The research interests of sociologists are, often, triggered by their own life experiences and observations (Howard and Dunaif-Hattis, 1992). The initial ideas for research thus may occur at any time and place for a researcher. Walking down a street, reading through newspapers, watching television, etc may suggest a 41 Introduction to Sociology topic of research for an observing and curious person (Mann, 1976). Once a research topic comes to our mind, we should ask the following questions: Is it researchable? Is it sociologically/ socially significant? What is new about it? What gap will it fill? Is it manageable in terms of time, money, expertise and other resources? In other words, do you have the needed resources to do the research? If you answer these and other related questions adequately, then you are on the right track to conduct the research. 2. Literature Review This step involves familiarizing or orienting yourself with the concepts, theories and the works already done pertaining to the topic identified. Relevant available literature on the topic chosen should be reviewed; we 42 Introduction to Sociology should also check out what works have already been done by others, what gaps are remaining, what questions remain unanswered, etc. Research work normally proceeds by reviewing earlier works on a specific research problem one has identified. The researcher will need to review past works on the question he or she is raising (Dooley, 1995). The traditionally dominant source for literature review has been libraries and documentation centers where books and various references are found in card catalogued manner. Nowadays, most libraries maintain a computerized filing system, whereby references are made available via electronic online methods. Searching literature has become very easy, thus, with the computerization of library sources; one can easily access them if Internet connection is available (Rosnow and Rosenthal, 1996) Literature review is necessitated by the fact that a researcher is probably not the first person to develop an interest in a particular problem; and hence, he or she need to spend some time in the library reviewing what 43 Introduction to Sociology theories and methods others have used to the topic in the past and what findings are there (Macionis, 1997). According to Marshal and Rossman (1989: 35), review of literature has the following four purposes: First, it demonstrates the underlying assumptions behind the general research question…. Second, it demonstrates that the researcher is thoroughly knowledgeable about related research and the intellectual traditions that surround and support the study. Third, it shows that the researcher has identified some gaps in previous research and that the proposed study will fill a demonstrated need. And finally, the review refines and redefines the research questions and related tentative hypotheses by embedding those questions in larger empirical traditions. 3. Hypothesis Formulation Hypothesis is a statement that can be proved to be correct or incorrect. Hypothesis formulation involves identifying basic research objectives and determining research questions. This should be tested empirically. We put some guiding assumptions to the research in this step. We ask some basic research questions. However, we may note that this may not be always the case. The type of research may determine whether 44 Introduction to Sociology hypothesizing is needed or not. For example, in exploratory studies hypothesizing may not be needed. 4. Selections and Designing of Methods of Data Collection Here the researcher determines data collection methods and prepares data collection instruments. He/she chooses from among the different data collection methods. There are generally two categories of methods: Quantitative methods and qualitative methods. Quantitative methods focus on measuring quantity of information: terms such as prevalence, scope, percentage, frequency, magnitude, etc are very important. On the other hand, qualitative methods focus on depth and quality of information. The complex, detailed and sensitive aspects; belief, attitudinal and knowledge dimensions etc are usually studied by qualitative methods. 5. Conducting Data Gathering Activity This is the step in which the researcher engages in collecting the needed data by using the various methods and instruments. The researcher goes to the field and 45 Introduction to Sociology collects the data. He/ she trains data collectors, supervises the overall data collection process, and so on. Data collected thus may be of two types: primary and secondary data. Primary data are firsthand and original information; the researcher firsthand collects them. They are collected by the sociology themselves during their own research using research tools such as experiment, survey, questionnaire, interviews and observation (Chapman, 2000). On the other hand, secondary data are those which are already collected by some one else found in various sources as documents or archives. They include: official statistical documents, mass media sources (such as electronic media – radio, television, films, etc; and print media such as newspapers, magazines, journals, posters, brochures, leaflets, sign broads, etc.) Some of the methods of data collection in sociology include: 46 Introduction to Sociology Surveys One of the dominant quantitative techniques is the survey method, which involves sampling, impersonal data collections, and sophisticated statistical analysis. Of all the social sciences research techniques, survey research probably seems to be the most visible and pervasive form research in the social and behavioral sciences (Jones, 1995).. In survey research, people who provide information are termed as respondents, (unlike in anthropology, where we call them informants); these respondents are often selected on random sample basis, wherein all members of a population have equal chances of being included in the study population There are three types of survey research: cross sectional survey, which aims to find out what opinions research participants across sections of society have about a certain phenomena at a given point of time his survey represents fixed reflections of one moment in time. Longitudinal survey is conducted on the same type of people over long period of time, as long as sometimes 20 to 30 years. This type provides us with a 47 Introduction to Sociology moving picture of the changes over time in a given area. The third type is called panel surveys, which are alternative versions of longitudinal surveys. It usually lasts shorter period of time and asks questions of panel members on a frequent basis. A panel member may be asked question every month for a couple of years, while in longitudinal survey, people are asked often once a year (Moore, 2001). Traditionally, the survey techniques has been considered the domain of disciplines such as sociology, psychology, political science, and economics, which often work mainly in large, complex and populous societies, unlike anthropologists, which have traditionally worked among small-scale societies. Experimentation: This quantitative method is sometimes used in sociology. Sociologists conduct experimental studies, following the procedures and principles of experimentation. This is done usually to explore cause and effect relationship between one and the other social phenomena. What causes what? What is the effect of one social phenomenon on the other? 48 Introduction to Sociology Key Informant Interview: This is a qualitative method in which a knowledgeable person in study site or community is contacted and interviewed by the researcher or data collector. Questions for the interview session may be prepared in advance, or sometimes only guiding themes are prepared for the session. This method is similar with in-depth interview, in that in most cases one individual person is contacted and interviewed at a time. However, in the latter, the researcher/ interviewer digs deep into issues (Macionis, 1997). Focus Group Discussion: This is a form of qualitative data collection method in which intends to make use of the explicit interaction dynamic among group members which may yield important information on certain topic. This qualitative method of data collection has become so popular particularly in the recent decades; it is highly being used by researchers from crosscutting fields such as public health, anthropology, and other behavioral sciences disciplines. 49 Introduction to Sociology Case Study: This method involves investigating a certain issue as a case taking longer time and investigating the phenomenon in depth. A case study may be about an individual person, a social group, a family, or an organization. The case chosen is regarded as a representative of the wider group or context from which it is derived. This method may involve elements of both quantitative and qualitative aspects. Observation: This qualitative method involves collecting data on social phenomena by carefully observing the social processes, events, activities, behaviors, actions, etc., they take place. All relevant events, actions, places, objects, etc must be observed and recorded (Marshal and Rossman, 1989). One of the key procedures in these techniques is called participant observation, the active involvement in community life while studying it. The researcher participates in a research setting while observing what is happening in that setting (Henslin and Nelson, 1995). A variant of this method is non-participant observation – collecting data without participating in what the informants or the subjects do. 50 Introduction to Sociology Unobtrusive Measures: Most of the research techniques are obtrusive, meaning the data are gathered while the study subjects’ behaviors actions are directly observed, and they know that they are being researched. To avoid the risks of the research act intruding on the subject of study thereby affecting the research findings, sociologists have developed what is called unobtrusive measures. When a researcher takes unobtrusive measures, people's behavior is observed while they are not aware of it. Here, this method involves techniques that do not interfere with the objects or events studied. Sociologist study many social phenomena using this methods such how people behave in the public arena, the way people wear and decorate themselves, the way they sit or stand relative to others, etc (Rosenberg, et al, 1987). 6. Data Organization, Analysis, Interpretation, and Report Writing The most challenging task is how to manage, handle, store and arrange the raw data as cautiously as 51 Introduction to Sociology possible. Data may get lost, if not handled well. The researcher here carefully stores the data, manages them, organizes and systematically arranges. Various ways of analyzing data are used both in qualitative and quantitative methods (Henslin and Nelson, 1995). For quantitative data researchers use sophisticated statistical techniques using computer models. Plans for data analysis are often made as early before the data are collected (Mann, 1976). Analysis of qualitative data also actually begins while the researcher is in the field recording his/ her field notes, tape recording and transcribing the interviews. Tape-recording the interview process and transcribing are the essential components of analysis (Jones 1995). In analyzing the data, the researcher must distinguish between his own views and the views of the people being studied (Scupin and DeCorse, 1995). There are many possible analytic schemes and some computer models for analyzing qualitative data are also available. 52 Introduction to Sociology After the data are entered into a computer for easy processing, tabulation, and analysis, the researcher interprets the data and writes up the findings. The hypotheses are tested, comparisons are made with similar kinds of studies conducted elsewhere or done before, conclusions are drawn, and recommendations are made, depending on the type of research, such as basic or applied. 7. Dissemination of Research Findings This is the final step in which the researcher shares the findings with all concerned bodies. Dissemination of the research findings is possible via scientific journals, seminars, symposiums, conferences and other forums. 53 Introduction to Sociology Figure 1.1 Steps in the Research Process (Adapted from Anthony Giddens, Sociology. 1996) DEFINE THE PROBLEM: Select a topic for research information REVIEW THE LITERATURE: Familiarize your self with existing research FORMULATE a HYPOTHESIS: What do you intend to test? What is the relationship between the variables? SELECT A RESEARCH DESIGN: Choose one or more research methods: experiment, survey, observation, use of existing sources, etc CARRY OUT THE RESEARCH: Collect your data INTERPRET YOUR RESULTS Work out the implications of the data collected REPORT THE RESEARCH FINDING What is their significance? How do they relate to previous findings? Your findings are registered and discussed in the wider academic circles 54 Introduction to Sociology 1.4. The Relationship between Sociology and Disciplines Sociology occupies an important position among the disciplines, usually called the social sciences. These include sociology, anthropology, psychology, economics, political science, history and human geography. These disciplines are sometimes also referred to as behavioral sciences, as they study the principles governing human social behavior. How is sociology related to other sciences? What are the similarities and differences? These are important questions. Sociology is similar with all other sciences in that it employs the scientific methods and its major aim is production of scientific knowledge. Sociology is related to other social and behavioral sciences in that all of them have more or less similar subject matter; they all in one way or another study society, human culture, social phenomena; and aim at discovering the laws that govern the social universe. 55 Introduction to Sociology However, sociology differs from other social sciences in terms of its focus of study, approach of study, and the method of study. The closest discipline to sociology is social anthropology. The two share concepts, theories and methods, and have similar historical background. However, they are different in that sociology is primarily interested in the problems of modern society, whereas anthropology is primarily interested in the problem of traditional, non-western society. (It should be noted here that this conventional distinction between the two is now disappearing.) Further, sociology focuses mainly on quantitative techniques where as anthropology on qualitative research techniques. Perhaps, the methods of research are more important in differentiating the two. Anthropology's heavy focus on qualitative method and sociology's on quantification are still persistent natures of the two disciplines. Further, one point of difference worth mentioning is that sociology is narrower in scope than anthropology, which has four sub fields; and anthropologists tend to stay in the field for long period (several months to few years) while sociologists prefer brief stay (weeks to few months). 56 Introduction to Sociology 1.5. Chapter Summary The term sociology is a combination of two words, socius and logos, which mean respectively society and study. Thus, a simple etymological definition of sociology is that it is the science of society. Sociology is a social or behavioral science that originated in the 19th century in Western Europe; its main concern is discovering the basic laws and principles that govern human social life, the social world, the working and development of society and its institutions. It grew out of the great revolutionary contexts, with great concern to address the social changes, disorders and problems of the modern world. Micro-sociology studies the micro aspects of human society, that is the social processes and phenomena taking place at small scale levels; macro-sociology studies the macro aspects, that is, the overall structure, functioning, change, development and processes of social phenomena at large-scale levels. The six major filed of study in sociology are social organization and 57 Introduction to Sociology social theory, social change, social problems, social processes, social groups, and social control. Learning sociology provides us with sociological imagination, an illuminating way of understanding the forces and factors that affect our lives as individuals, groups, communities and nations. Sociology provides us with much practical benefit and it contributes greatly to the solutions for contemporary societal problems. Research is very important in sociology. Although some challenge its scientific status, it uses the scientific method to produce, store and disseminate scientific knowledge on society and social phenomena. A typical sociological research may involve seven steps, and each step is very important and has to be carefully followed to do standard and quality research. Sociology is not an island; it is interdependent with other sciences; and as to its subject matter it is more or less similar with the other social or behavioral sciences such as anthropology, social psychology, political science, economics, and human geography. However, as to its 58 Introduction to Sociology methods, focus, unit of analysis, and approaches, it is different. The closest discipline to sociology is social anthropology; they share similar historical development, concepts, theories, and approaches; although the former focuses on modern societies and quantitative research and the latter focuses on traditional societies and qualitative research techniques. 59 Introduction to Sociology Review Questions 1. What is sociology? Explain it using your own words. 2. How can we differentiate sociology from other social sciences, which also study society and human culture? 3. Discuss the main sociopolitical and economic factors behind the emergence of sociology. 4. Mention at least five issues of sociological relevance in the contemporary society of Ethiopia. 5. Discuss the personal and professional benefits of learning sociology. 6. Consider the issue of students’ sexual behavior in your University. Discuss those aspects that would be interesting to study for a sociologist. What aspects might not be interesting sociologically? Why? 7. Discuss the main differences between qualitative and quantitative methods of doing research. 8. Identify the factors to be considered when one is considering choosing a certain issue or issues as research topic. 60 Introduction to Sociology CHAPTER TWO SOCIETY AND CULTURE Learning Objectives At learning this chapter, students will be able to: Define the concept of society; Describe the basic characteristics of a society; Conceptualize society as having different levels; Describe the different types of society on the basis of various parameters; Explain how society functions as a system; Define the concept of culture; Describe the basic features of culture; Identify the key elements of culture; and Understand other main concepts related to culture 61 Introduction to Sociology 2.1. The Concept of Society 2.1.1. Definition The term society as mentioned earlier is derived from a Latin word socius. The term directly means association, togetherness, gregariousness, or simply group life. The concept of society refers to a relatively large grouping or collectivity of people who share more or less common and distinct culture, occupying a certain geographical locality, with the feeling of identity or belongingness, having all the necessary social arrangements or insinuations to sustain itself. We may add a more revealing definition of society as defined by Calhoun et al (1994): "A society is an autonomous grouping of people who inhabit a common territory, have a common culture (shared set of values, beliefs, customs and so forth) and are linked to one another through routinized social interactions and interdependent statuses and roles." Society also may mean a certain population group, a community 62 Introduction to Sociology The common tendency in sociology has been to conceptualize society as a system, focusing on the bounded and integrated nature of society. Great founders of sociology had also focused on the dynamic aspect of society. Such early sociologists as Comte, Marx and Spencer grasped the concept of society as a dynamic system evolving historically and inevitably towards complex industrial structures (Swingwood, 1991:313). The common tendency in sociology has been to conceptualize society as a system, focusing on the bounded and integrated nature of society. But in recent years such an approach has been criticized. Contemporary sociologists now frequently use the network conception of society. This approach views society as overlapping, dynamic and fluid network of economic, political, cultural and other relations at various levels. Such a conception is analytically more powerful and reflects the reality especially in the context of modern, globalizing world. (Personal communication: Dr Teketel Abebe, Addis Ababa University, Department of Sociology and Social Anthropology) 63 Introduction to Sociology 2.1.2. Basic Features of a Society First, a society is usually a relatively large grouping of people in terms of size. In a very important sense, thus, society may be regarded as the largest and the most complex social group that sociologists study. Second, as the above definition shows, the most important thing about a society is that its members share common and distinct culture. This sets it apart from the other population groups. Third, a society also has a definite, limited space or territory. The populations that make up a given society are thus locatable in a definite geographical area. The people consider that area as their own. Fourth, the people who make up a society have the feeling of identity and belongingness. There is also the feeling of oneness. Such identity felling emanates from the routinized pattern of social interaction that exists among the people and the various groups that make up the society. (Henslin and Nelson, 1995; Giddens, 1996; Calhoun et al., 1994) 64 Introduction to Sociology Fifth, members of a society are considered to have a common origin and common historical experience. They feel that they have also common destiny. Sixth, members of a society may also speak a common mother tongue or a major language that may serve as a national heritage. Seventh, a society is autonomous and independent in the sense that it has all the necessary social institutions and organizational arrangements to sustain the system. However, a society is not an island, in the sense that societies are interdependent. There has always been inter– societal relations. People interact socially, economically and politically. It is important to note that the above features of a society are by no means exhaustive and they may not apply to all societies. The level of a society’s economic and technological development, the type of economic or livelihood system a society is engaged in, etc may create some variations among societies in terms of these basic features. 65 Introduction to Sociology 2.1.3. Conceptualizing Society at Various Levels As indicated above, in a general sense and at an abstract level, all people of the earth may be considered as a society. The earth is a common territory for the whole world's people. All people of the earth share common origin; inhabit common planet; have common bio psychological unity; and exhibit similar basic interests, desires and fears; and are heading towards common destiny (Calhoun, et al., 1994). At another level, every continent may be considered as a society. Thus, we may speak of the European society, the African society, the Asian society, the Latin American society, etc. This may be because, each of these continents share its own territory, historical experiences, shared culture, and so on. At a more practical level, each nation-state or country is regarded as a society. For example, the people of Ethiopia or Kenya, Japan are considered as a society. Going far farther still, another level of society is that within each nation-state, there may be ethno- 66 Introduction to Sociology linguistically distinct groups of people having a territory that they consider as their own. They are thus societies in their own right. Some Such society may extend beyond the boundaries of nation-states. Example, the Borana Oromo inhabit in both Ethiopia and Kenya. 2.1.4. Types or Categories of Societies Sociologists classify societies into various categories depending on certain criteria. One such criterion is level of economic and technological development attained by countries. Thus, the countries of the world are classified as First World, Second World, and Third World; First World Countries are those which are highly industrially advanced and economically rich, such as the USA, Japan, Britain, France, Italy, Germany, and Canada and so on. The Second World Countries are also industrially advanced but not as much as the first category. The Third World societies are thus which are least developed, or in the process of developing. Some writers add a fourth category, namely, Fourth World countries. These countries may be regarded as the "poorest of the poor" (Giddens, 1996). 67 Introduction to Sociology Another important criterion for classifying societies may be that which takes into account temporal succession and the major source of economic organization (Lensiki and Lensiki, 1995). When societies modernize they transform from one form to another. The simplest type of society that is in existence today and that may be regarded the oldest is that whose economic organization is based on hunting and gathering. They are called hunting and gathering societies. This society depends on hunting and gathering for its survival. The second types are referred to as pastoral and horticultural societies. Pastoral societies are those whose livelihood is based on pasturing of animals, such as cattle, camels, sheep and goats. Horticultural societies are those whose economy is based on cultivating plants by the use of simple tools, such as digging sticks, hoes, axes, etc. The third types are agricultural societies. This society, which still is dominant in most parts of the world, is based on large-scale agriculture, which largely depends on ploughs using animal labor. The Industrial Revolution 68 Introduction to Sociology which began in Great Britain during 18th century, gave rise to the emergence of a fourth type of society called the Industrial Society. An industrial society is one in which goods are produced by machines powered by fuels instead of by animal and human energy (Ibid.). Sociologists also have come up with a fifth emerging type of society called post-industrial society. This is a society based on information, services and high technology, rather than on raw materials and manufacturing. The highly industrialized which have now passed to the post-industrial level include the USA, Canada, Japan, and Western Europe. 2.2. The Concept of Culture 2.2.1. Definition Before going any further, it may be important to note that common people often misuse the concept of culture. Some misconceptions about the to term culture include: 1. Many people in the western world use the term culture in the sense that some people are more "cultured" than others. This basically emanates 69 Introduction to Sociology from the idea associated with the root word of the term culture, “kulture” in German, which refers to “civilization". Thus, when one is said to be “cultured”, he or she is said to be civilized. For sociologists and anthropologists, "culture includes much more than refinement, taste, sophistication, education and appreciation of the fine arts. Not only college graduates but also all people are ‘cultured’” Kottak (2002: 272). 2. A second commonly used misconception is that which equates “culture" with things which are colorful, customs, cloths, foods, dancing, music, etc. As Kottak (op. cit p.525) argues, “… many [people] have come to think of culture in terms of colorful customs, music, dancing and adornments clothing, jewelry and hairstyles…. Taken to an extreme, such images portray culture as recreational and ultimately unserious rather than something that ordinary people live everyday of their lives not just when they have festivals” (Ibid. P. 525). 70 Introduction to Sociology 3. A third misconception about what culture is and what it constitutes is that which may be entertained by many common people here in Ethiopia. This misconception is similar to the second one, but it differs from it in that most people here think culture (as conceptualized in its local language for example, bahil in Amharic) is that which pertains to unique traditional material objects or non – material things of the past. According to this view, the cultural may not include things (material or non – material), which are modern, more ordinary, day-to – day, life aspects. Here, the simple, ordinary social, economic