Overview
This lecture introduces core sociology theories—structuralism, interpretivism, conflict vs. consensus approaches—and key research methods, including their strengths and weaknesses.
Introduction to Sociology
- Sociology is the study of human life, social groups, and societies.
- Sociologists examine social factors such as norms, values, and daily influences on behavior.
Approaches to Understanding Society
- Structuralism: Society's structures (family, religion, education) shape individuals’ behaviors and experiences (macro perspective).
- Interpretivism: Individuals shape society through conscious thought and critical reflection (micro perspective).
Main Sociological Theories
- Functionalism (Consensus): Each institution serves a function, maintaining societal stability (like organs in a body).
- Marxism (Conflict): Society is split into two classes—bourgeoisie (elite) exploit proletariat (workers), leading to conflict.
- Feminism (Conflict): Focuses on gender-based conflict, arguing patriarchy exploits women.
The Research Process in Sociology
- Begin with an aim and hypothesis (testable statement).
- Conduct a pilot study (small-scale trial).
- Select a representative sample from a sampling frame.
- Data collection: Use primary (original data) or secondary (existing data) methods.
- Peer evaluation ensures quality before publication.
Research Methods: Types, Strengths, and Weaknesses
- Questionnaires: Closed-ended are reliable and cheap but lack depth (validity); open-ended provide detailed answers but are less reliable.
- Interviews: Structured (fixed questions), unstructured (casual), or semi-structured (mixed); provide valid data but are time-consuming and less reliable.
- Experiments: Laboratory (controlled, low validity), Field (natural, high validity but time-consuming).
- Case Studies: In-depth study of one group/event; rich details but not generalizable.
- Longitudinal Studies: Study over time; show changes but require long commitment.
- Observation: Participant (researcher involved) or non-participant; overt (open) or covert (hidden); high validity but ethical and bias issues.
- Content Analysis: Analyzes documents/media for patterns; highly reliable, less valid (lack explanations).
- Triangulation: Combining several methods for higher validity and reliability; time and skill intensive.
Secondary Data Types
- Quantitative secondary data: Official statistics (hard data like birth rates, soft data like crime rates); accessible, comparative, may be biased or manipulated.
- Qualitative secondary data: Letters, diaries, biographies; rich detail but may be unrepresentative or biased.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Structuralism — Macro approach viewing society’s structures as shaping individuals.
- Interpretivism — Micro approach focusing on individuals shaping society.
- Functionalism — Consensus theory where institutions serve necessary functions.
- Marxism — Conflict theory highlighting economic class struggles.
- Feminism — Conflict theory focusing on patriarchy and gender inequality.
- Pilot Study — Preliminary small-scale study before main research.
- Sample/Sampling Frame — A subset/complete list used to select participants for research.
- Validity — The accuracy and depth of data.
- Reliability — Consistency of data across time/contexts.
- Triangulation — Use of multiple methods or data sources in research.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Read the relevant textbook chapter on sociological theories and methods.
- Review your notes and prepare sample questions for each theory and method.