Overview
This lecture covers the historical development and origins of sociology as a science, highlighting key events and thinkers that contributed to its birth.
Early Roots and Precursors
- Philosophers discussed society before the term "sociology" existed.
- Ibn Khaldun, a Muslim scientist, is considered by some as laying the foundation for sociology with his modern thoughts on society.
Historical Background and the Rise of Sociology
- The Enlightenment (14th–17th centuries) revived science after a period dominated by religious dogma and monarchy.
- The Renaissance marked progress in science, leading to confidence and inventions like the steam engine.
- The Industrial Revolution in England drastically changed social structures, causing urbanization, exploitation, and child labor.
- The French Revolution was a political revolution that overthrew the monarchy and altered the social order.
- These revolutions created significant social problems that old traditions could not explain.
Emergence as a Scientific Discipline
- The rise of natural sciences (chemistry and physics) promoted the use of scientific methods to study society.
- Auguste Comte, a French philosopher, popularized the term "sociology."
- Comte was influenced by the social turmoil from the French Revolution, especially class conflict and societal instability.
- He advocated for social research based on scientific methods, making sociology a standalone science in the 19th century.
- Comte outlined his ideas in "Cours de Philosophie Positive" ("Course of Positive Philosophy").
Development and Importance of Sociology
- Sociology gained recognition as a science dedicated to understanding society and its changes.
- Many new sociologists and their theories have since emerged.
- Sociology is often called the "queen of social sciences" for its role in understanding social dynamics.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Sociology — The scientific study of society and social behavior.
- Enlightenment — Period of renewed scientific and intellectual activity in Europe, also called the Age of Reason.
- Renaissance — Era of cultural and scientific revival in Europe following the Middle Ages.
- Industrial Revolution — 18th–19th century period of technological and social change, starting in England.
- French Revolution — Late 18th-century political upheaval in France that transformed its social and political systems.
- Auguste Comte — French philosopher who founded and named the field of sociology.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Watch the next video for the history of sociology in Indonesia.
- Review Auguste Comte’s "Course of Positive Philosophy" for deeper understanding.