Day 2 & 3 Slideshow-- The Development of Sociology and Leading Theories

Sociology

The systematic study of society and social interactions.

Auguste Comte

Regarded as the father of sociology; coined the term 'sociology' and emphasized a scientific approach to understanding society.

Positivism

A philosophical theory developed by Comte that asserts that only scientific knowledge derived from empirical evidence is of real value.

Social Darwinism

An ideology that applies the concept of 'survival of the fittest' to social structures and ethics, associated with Herbert Spencer.

Functionalism

A sociological perspective that views society as a complex system with interrelated parts working together to maintain stability.

Conflict Theory

A sociological perspective that emphasizes the role of power and inequality in shaping social relations and structures.

Symbolic Interactionism

A theoretical framework that focuses on the subjective meanings individuals attach to symbols and their interactions.

Feminist Theory

A perspective that examines the impact of gender inequality and advocates for social justice and gender equality.

Anomie

A state of normlessness or breakdown of social norms, as described by Emile Durkheim.

Double Consciousness

A concept by W. E. B. Du Bois that describes the internal conflict experienced by marginalized groups in a racially stratified society.

Rationalization

A concept developed by Max Weber referring to the process by which traditional modes of thinking are replaced by a focus on efficiency and logic.

Interdisciplinary Research

Research that integrates perspectives and methods from different disciplines to enhance understanding of social phenomena.

Qualitative Research

Research that focuses on understanding the meanings, experiences, and perspectives of individuals in social contexts.

Quantitative Research

Research that involves the collection and analysis of numerical data to identify patterns and test hypotheses.

Mixed-Methods Research

Research that combines both quantitative and qualitative approaches to provide a comprehensive understanding of social phenomena.

Urban Sociology

A field of sociology that studies social life and interactions in urban environments.

Social Cohesion

The bonds that bring society together, contributing to social stability.

Cultural Hybridity

The blending of different cultural influences in a globalized world.

Rationalization of Society

Weber's concept referring to the increasing dominance of reason and logic in social organizations and practices.

Critical Theory

A theoretical approach that critiques and seeks to change society by addressing power disparities and social inequalities.

Globalization

The process of increased interconnectedness and interdependence among countries, affecting social, economic, and cultural dimensions.