Sociology ch1

These flashcards cover key concepts and definitions from the sociology lecture notes.

What is sociology?

Sociology is the study of human societies.

Why is sociology important?

Sociology is important because it examines societal and structural issues rather than only individual problems.

What does sociological imagination refer to?

Sociological imagination enables individuals to see their personal circumstances in relation to broader social forces.

What did Thomas Kuhn contribute to sociology?

Thomas Kuhn introduced the concept of paradigms, which shape how we observe, question, and interpret social phenomena.

What is symbolic interactionism?

Symbolic interactionism is a theoretical perspective that examines how individuals interact and construct meaning through social exchanges.

What are social structures?

Social structures produce enduring patterns of social behavior and shape individual actions.

How do sociologists conceptualize social structures?

Sociologists conceptualize social structures through social systems, social institutions, and sets of social relations.

What is the core idea of the conflict paradigm?

The conflict paradigm focuses on power relations and social inequalities and how they create social problems.

What does the term 'pink tax' refer to?

The pink tax refers to the phenomenon where products marketed towards women are often more expensive than those marketed towards men.

What is the difference between a theory and a paradigm?

A theory is a set of propositions to explain phenomena, while a paradigm is a fundamental framework for understanding the world.

Who is known as the father of sociology?

Auguste Comte is known as the father of sociology.

How did Max Weber contribute to sociology?

Max Weber identified values in early Protestantism that contributed to the development of modern capitalism.

What does the Thomas theorem state?

The Thomas theorem states that if individuals define situations as real, they are real in their consequences.

How can sociology aid in social work?

Sociology provides an understanding of societal dynamics that can be applied to improve individuals' well-being.

What is a cultural mosaic?

A cultural mosaic is a metaphor characterizing Canada's multicultural society.

How does sociological imagination relate to social issues?

Sociological imagination reveals that social issues, like poverty, should be addressed collectively, not just as individual concerns.

What role do social institutions play in society?

Social institutions reinforce enduring patterns of behavior and help maintain social order.

What is the significance of the 'feudal system' in sociology?

The feudal system represents historical social structures which transitioned to new economic and social systems through industrialization.

What does the term 'vertical mosaic' mean?

Vertical mosaic refers to systemic discrimination that results in a hierarchy among racial, ethnic, and religious groups.