Developing a Sociological Perspective

A set of vocabulary flashcards for key terms and concepts discussed in the SOC100H1S lecture on sociological perspectives.

Sociological Perspective

A viewpoint that focuses on understanding human behavior in a broader societal context, emphasizing the influence of social structures and institutions.

Empirical Research Methods

Techniques for collecting and analyzing data that can be verified through observation or experience.

Socialization

The process by which individuals learn and internalize the values, beliefs, and norms of their society.

Stratification

The hierarchical organization of individuals or groups in a society based on wealth, power, or status.

Mechanical Solidarity

A form of social cohesion that arises when individuals in a society maintain similar values and beliefs, typically found in simpler, pre-industrial societies.

Organic Solidarity

A form of social cohesion that arises when individuals in a society have diverse roles and responsibilities, interdependent on each other, typical of more complex industrial societies.

Demography

The statistical study of populations, including the structure, distribution, and trends in growth or decline.

Census

A comprehensive count and survey of a population, typically conducted every ten years, that collects demographic information.

Qualitative Methods

Research methods that collect non-numerical data to understand concepts, opinions, or experiences.

Quantitative Methods

Research methods that involve the collection and analysis of numerical data to identify patterns and relationships.

Altruistic Suicide

A type of suicide that occurs when an individual is excessively integrated into a social group, leading to self-sacrifice.

Egoistic Suicide

A type of suicide that occurs when an individual is insufficiently integrated into a social group, leading to feelings of isolation.

Anomie

A state of normlessness that arises when society fails to effectively regulate the expectations or behaviors of its members.

Collective Effervescence

The heightened emotional and social energy experienced during collective gatherings that strengthens group identity.

Reserve Army of Labour

A surplus population that capitalists can draw upon to keep wages low and maintain control over the workforce.

The Life Course Theory

A sociological perspective that examines individuals' lives as they progress through various life stages and transitions influenced by social factors.