Overview
This lecture introduces the field of sociology, its history, key perspectives, and applications in society, providing foundational concepts and highlighting sociology’s relevance to real-life issues.
Introduction to Sociology
- Sociology is the scientific study of groups, societies, and social interactions.
- Sociologists examine both small-scale (micro) and large-scale (macro) social patterns.
- Culture refers to the shared practices, values, and beliefs of a group.
- The sociological imagination connects individual experiences to larger social and historical forces.
Patterns, Social Structures, and Society
- Individual actions are shaped by social forces, cultural patterns, and societal norms.
- Social facts are laws, morals, values, customs, and rituals that influence social life.
- Figuration is the analysis of individuals and society as inseparable.
- Sociologists study changing family structures, employment, and societal norms.
History and Development of Sociology
- Sociology emerged alongside industrialization and societal change in the 19th century.
- Key early thinkers: Auguste Comte (positivism), Harriet Martineau (methodology), Karl Marx (conflict theory), Herbert Spencer (functionalism), Emile Durkheim (social facts), Max Weber (verstehen & anti-positivism).
- American sociologists: W.E.B. Du Bois (empirical research, race), Jane Addams (social reform), Charles Horton Cooley (Looking Glass self), George Herbert Mead (self-development), Robert E. Park (social ecology).
Theoretical Perspectives in Sociology
- Structural Functionalism: Sees society as interrelated parts working for stability; focuses on manifest and latent functions.
- Conflict Theory: Views society as groups competing for limited resources; emphasizes power and inequality.
- Symbolic Interactionism: Examines micro-level interactions and the meaning-making process; focuses on symbols and communication.
- Each perspective offers different explanations and research approaches.
Applications and Value of Sociology
- Sociology informs social reform and public policy (e.g., desegregation, gender equality).
- Studying sociology develops critical thinking, research skills, and cultural awareness.
- Understanding social dynamics is vital for diverse careers and navigating modern society.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Society — Group of people sharing a geographic area and culture.
- Culture — Shared practices, values, and beliefs of a society.
- Social Facts — Established laws, beliefs, customs governing social life.
- Sociological Imagination — Awareness of the link between personal experience and society.
- Functionalism — Theory viewing society as structured to maintain stability.
- Conflict Theory — Theory emphasizing power struggles and inequalities.
- Symbolic Interactionism — Theory focusing on individual interactions and meanings.
- Positivism — Belief that society can be studied using scientific methods.
- Verstehen — Deep understanding from an Insider's viewpoint.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review chapter 1 and key terms from the textbook.
- Prepare for discussion on how sociological perspectives apply to current social issues.
- Complete assigned reading on early sociological theorists.