CAPE® Sociology Unit 1

Flashcards covering key concepts and terms related to the introduction of sociology and its founding fathers, as well as significant theories and perspectives in sociology.

Sociology

The systematic study of society, concerned with human society and social interactions.

Founding Father

Auguste Comte, who coined the term 'sociology' in 1838 and viewed it as the scientific study of society.

Positivism

The belief that sociology can be studied as a science, emphasizing empirical evidence and scientific methods.

Functionalism

A sociological perspective that views society as a system of parts that work together for the benefit of the whole.

Macro approach

An approach in sociology focusing on large-scale social processes and structures that shape individual actions.

Conflict Perspective

A viewpoint that sees society as composed of groups that compete for resources and power, highlighting social inequality.

Sociological Imagination

The ability to connect individual experiences with larger social forces and understand their relationship.

Plural Society Thesis

A theory developed by M.G. Smith that describes a society composed of different cultural groups that maintain their distinctiveness.

Creole Society Thesis

A theory by Kamau Braithwaite that emphasizes the uniqueness of Caribbean society formed by various cultural influences.

Interactionism

A sociological perspective that emphasizes the role of human interactions and interpretations in shaping society.