Sociology is the scientific study of human society, social behavior, and the patterns of relationships that exist between individuals and groups. As an academic discipline, sociology seeks to understand the complexity of social life and how it affects human behavior. This chapter, “Introduction to Sociology,” provides an overview of the field of sociology, its history, and the methods used to study social phenomena. Section 1.1 examines what sociology is and the various perspectives and approaches used to understand society. Section 1.2 delves into the history of sociology, exploring the major theorists who shaped the discipline.
Section 1.3 discusses the methods used in sociological research, including qualitative and quantitative approaches. Section 1.4 highlights the importance of theory in sociology, and section 1.5 explores the different research methods used in sociology. By the end of this chapter, readers will have a better understanding of the scope and methods of sociology and its relevance in understanding our complex and changing social world.
- SLO 1: Comprehend and explain the foundational concepts of sociology, its role in interpreting social behavior, and its relevance to everyday social situations.
- SLO 2: Identify, analyze, and differentiate between key contributors, ideas, and theoretical approaches in sociology and their impact on the discipline’s development.
- SLO 3: Understand sociological approaches and methods, their unique features, and their application across various social settings using evidence-based analysis.
- SLO 4: Recognize the development and function of sociological theory, the main theoretical frameworks, and their usefulness in explaining behavior, social interaction, and institutional structures.
- SLO 5: Understand and assess different research methods in sociology, their uses, strengths, and limitations, and their role in studying human behavior and social dynamics.
Modification History File Created: 05/07/2023 Last Modified: 05/07/2023
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