sociology

Sociology

The study of the action and interaction of individuals within society, focusing on the influence of various social factors.

Ubiquity

The concept of the everywhere-ness of influence in social interactions.

Pioneers of Sociology

Key figures who contributed foundational ideas to the field, including Comte, Martineau, Marx, Durkheim, and Weber.

Auguste Comte

Known as the "Father of Sociology," he originally referred to sociology as "social physics" and proposed the three stages of societal development.

Three Stages of Societal Development

Theological, Metaphysical, and Positive stages that describe the evolution of societal understanding.

Positivism

The belief that science and its methods are the only valid means of acquiring knowledge.

Observation

A method in sociology involving watching and recording social interactions.

Experimentation

A method that measures the effect of an independent variable on a dependent variable in social research.

Comparison

The process of analyzing similarities and differences between social phenomena.

Harriet Martineau

Recognized as the "Mother of Sociology," she focused on the coexistence of different societal groups and the standard of living.

Ethnographic Narratives

In-depth studies of people and cultures from the perspective of the subjects, providing sociological insights.

Karl Marx

Known as the "Father of Scientific Socialism," he emphasized class struggle and conflict theory in understanding society.

Class Struggle

The conflict between workers (proletariat) and capitalists (bourgeoisie) over economic resources and power.

Conflict Theory

A perspective that examines the inequality and exploitation within society, particularly between different social classes.

Emile Durkheim

A key figure in sociology who defended it as an independent discipline and focused on social facts and functionalism.

Social Facts

Norms, values, and structures that influence individual behavior within society.

Functionalism

A sociological perspective that emphasizes the importance of cooperation and the interrelatedness of societal components.

Structural-Functional Theory

Views society as a complex structure designed to meet the biological and social needs of individuals.

Max Weber

A significant theorist who introduced the concept of 'Verstehen' and emphasized rationalization in understanding social behavior.

Verstehen

The empathetic understanding of social actions by comprehending the feelings and motivations of individuals.

Rationalization

The process of explaining or justifying behavior with logical reasoning, particularly in modern society.

Types of Social Action

Includes customs, affective social action, rational social action, and rational-instrumental action, each defined by different motivations.

Origin of Sociology

Emerged in Europe during the industrial revolution, focusing on the social changes brought about by industrialism.

Conflict Theory Perspective

Marx's view that society is characterized by continuous struggle, particularly for those from poorer backgrounds.

Functionalist Perspective

Durkheim and Weber's view that emphasizes the importance of fulfilling societal roles to maintain balance.