Chapter 1 Sociology and the Real World – Vocabulary Flashcards

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts, terms, and figures introduced in Chapter 1: Sociology and the Real World.

Sociology

The systematic or scientific study of human society and social behavior.

Society

A group of people who shape their lives in aggregated and patterned ways that distinguish their group from others.

Social Sciences

Disciplines that use the scientific method to examine the social world (e.g., anthropology, psychology, economics, political science).

Sociological Perspective

A way of looking at the world through a sociological lens, understanding how social life shapes individuals and society.

Beginner's Mind

Approaching the world without preconceptions to see things in a new way.

Sociological Imagination

A quality of mind that connects personal biography to history and larger social forces.

Personal Troubles

Private problems experienced by individuals that are shaped by broader social contexts.

Public Issues

Societal problems that require looking at social institutions and structures.

Microsociology

The level of analysis that studies face-to-face interactions and small groups.

Macrosociology

The level of analysis that studies large-scale social processes and structures.

Structural Functionalism

A macro theory viewing society as a unified whole where parts function to maintain stability.

Manifest Functions

The obvious, intended functions of a social structure.

Latent Functions

The less obvious, unintended functions of a social structure.

Émile Durkheim

A central figure in functionalist theory; studied solidarity, division of labor, and suicide to explain social bonds.

Mechanical Solidarity

Cohesion in premodern societies based on shared beliefs and traditions.

Organic Solidarity

Cohesion in modern industrial societies based on interdependence and individual rights.

Anomie

Normlessness or disconnect resulting from rapid social change or weak social bonds.

Conflict Theory

A macro-level approach that sees inequality and competition over resources as drivers of social change.

Karl Marx

Founding figure of conflict theory; analyzed capitalism, class struggle, and the exploitation of workers.

Proletariat

Workers who sell their labor and do not own the means of production.

Bourgeoisie

Owners who own the means of production and employ workers.

Means of Production

Resources used to produce wealth, including land, factories, and capital.

Alienation

Feelings of disconnection workers experience under capitalism from the products of their labor.

False Consciousness

A misperception by the oppressed of their true interests, aligning with ruling-class ideology.

Class Consciousness

Awareness of one’s social class and its interests, often leading to collective action.

Praxis

The practical application of theory to bring about social change.

Symbolic Interactionism

A micro-level theory that emphasizes how meanings arise from social interaction and are negotiated.