Sociological Theories and Concepts

These flashcards cover key sociological concepts and theories discussed in the lecture, focusing on individualism, social classes, solidarity, and influential sociologists.

Individualism

The rise of prioritizing individual rights and personal autonomy over collective goals.

Proletariat

The exploited class in a capitalist society who work in exchange for wages.

Bourgeoisie

The dominant capitalist class that owns the means of production.

Alienation

The condition in which individuals feel disconnected from their work and fellow humans.

Socialization

The process through which individuals learn and internalize the norms and values of their society.

Folkways

Informal norms that govern everyday behavior without strong moral significance.

Mores

Strict norms governing moral and ethical behavior; violations can lead to serious repercussions.

Taboos

Norms that are held to strictly, such that any violation results in severe consequences.

Social solidarity

The set of social ties that connect individuals within a society.

Mechanical solidarity

The social cohesion based on shared beliefs and practices in primitive societies.

Organic solidarity

The social cohesion based on interdependence and specialization in advanced societies.

Legal-rational authority

Power that is legitimized by laws and rules established by formal systems.

Altruistic suicides

Suicides resulting from excessive integration into a social group.

Egoistic suicides

Suicides stemming from a lack of social connections and isolation.

Fatalistic suicides

Suicides caused by excessive regulation and control over individuals.

Double consciousness

The internal conflict experienced by subordinated groups in an oppressive society.

The veil

A metaphor illustrating the division between black and white Americans.

The Souls of Black Folk

W.E.B. Du Bois' work exploring the experiences of African Americans in society.

The Yellow Wallpaper

Charlotte Perkins Gilman's work addressing women's mental health and societal constraints.

The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism

Max Weber's analysis of how religious beliefs shaped economic behavior in Western societies.