Overview
This lecture introduces core concepts in sociology, focusing on its goals, empirical methods, measurement challenges, the idea of debunking, and contrasts between pure and applied science.
Introduction to Sociology
- Sociology studies human beings interacting within social environments.
- Examines reciprocal effects between humans and their environment.
- The main goals are to predict, explain, and understand human behavior.
Methods and Measurement in Sociology
- Observations and empirical evidence (knowledge through senses) are key tools in sociology.
- Social sciences attempt to study society through scientific methods.
- Some aspects of the social world are easier to measure (e.g., table length) than others (e.g., love).
- Complex concepts may require different measurement approaches depending on the context.
Debunking and Seeking Truth
- Debunking is the process of challenging misinformation to find the truth.
- Sociologists are tasked with questioning common beliefs to uncover realities.
Pure Science vs. Applied Science in Sociology
- Karl Marx advocated for activism and applied science—using knowledge to effect change.
- Max Weber supported pure science—pursuing knowledge for its own sake and minimizing researcher bias.
- Sociology encompasses both pure (theoretical) and applied (practical) approaches.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Empirical Evidence — Information obtained through observation and the senses.
- Debunking — The act of exposing false claims to discover the truth.
- Pure Science — Research conducted to expand knowledge, not necessarily aimed at practical application.
- Applied Science — Using knowledge to address real-world problems or promote change.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the differences between pure and applied science for the upcoming test.
- Reflect on examples of debunking in everyday life.
- Prepare examples of easy and difficult concepts to measure in sociology.