Introduction to Sociology Lecture Notes

A set of flashcards covering major concepts introduced in the lecture on sociology, including definitions and distinctions between related fields.

Sociology

The scientific study of human beings in groups and as individuals.

Natural Sciences

Disciplines designed to comprehend, explain, and predict events in the natural environment, such as biology and chemistry.

Social Sciences

Fields that examine human relationships and social worlds, aiming to understand social interactions objectively.

Objectivity in Sociology

The goal of sociology to understand social phenomena that may not be immediately obvious.

Psychology vs. Sociology

Psychology focuses on individual mental processes, while sociology emphasizes external social factors.

Social Psychology

A field that combines elements of psychology and sociology to understand how individuals' thoughts and behavior are influenced by social contexts.

Social Constructs

Concepts and perceptions created and maintained through social interactions among individuals.

Reality as a Social Construct

The idea that reality is shaped by social interactions and collective agreements among people.

Sociological Perspective

A viewpoint that encourages seeing everyday life in new and different ways, emphasizing the role of social context.

Collective Behavior

Actions and interactions of groups, often studied within sociology to understand social dynamics.

Social Structure

The organized pattern of social relationships and institutions that together compose society.

Cultural Conditioning

The process by which individuals are influenced and shaped by their culture and societal norms.

Negotiation of Meaning

How individuals come to agreement on the meanings of events and interactions within their social contexts.