Sociological Theories and Key Figures

Flashcards covering key terms and concepts from the sociology lecture notes.

C. Wright Mills

Sociologist known for the concept of 'social imagination', which is the awareness of the relationship between an individual's behavior and experience and the broader societal context.

Auguste Comte

Philosopher regarded as the father of sociology, known for structural functionalism.

Independent and Dependent Variables

In research, the independent variable is manipulated to observe its effect on the dependent variable.

Qualitative and Quantitative Research Designs

Types of research methods where qualitative focuses on understanding meanings and quantitative utilizes numerical data.

Sociological Paradigm

Frameworks such as Structural Functionalism, Conflict Theory, and Symbolic Interactionism used to analyze social phenomena.

Structural Functionalism

A sociological perspective that views society as a complex system whose parts work together to promote stability.

Conflict Theory

A sociological approach that studies the ways in which social inequalities contribute to conflict and power dynamics.

Symbolic Interactionism

A micro-level theory that focuses on social interactions and the meanings individuals attach to them.

Emile Durkheim

A founding figure in sociology, known for his work on structural functionalism and social facts.

Sociology

The scientific study of social behavior and human groups.

Max Weber

German sociologist known for his concept of 'Verstehen', emphasizing understanding social behavior from the actor's perspective.

W.E.B. Du Bois

First African American to receive a PhD from Harvard; known for his research on race and the African American experience.

Jane Addams

Social reformer and co-founder of Hull House, a settlement house that provided services in poor urban areas.

Ida B. Wells

African American journalist and activist, noted for her work in anti-lynching campaigns and women's rights.