Introduction to Sociology Notes

What is Sociology

• Sociology is the study of human groups and societies, with particular emphasis on the analysis of the industrialized world (Giddens).
  • It is the scientific study of human society and social behavior.
  • It ranges in scope from institutions to individuals.

Sociological Rainbow

• People's actions are influenced by opportunities and constraints.
• Societal structures influence families; actions aren't solely based on free will.
• Institutions affecting people: jobs, media, schools, families, religious groups.
• Broader influences (macro level):
  • Culture (e.g., consumer culture).
  • Social class systems (example: to be filled in).
  • Race systems (examples: to be filled in).
  • Sex-gender system (example: to be filled in).

Sociological Perspective

• To be filled in.

Sociological Theory

• Symbolic Interactionism
• Functional Analysis
• Conflict Theory

How do these theories analyze marriage and children?

• This question is posed to be answered from the perspective of each theory.