Sociology: a Social Science

Outcomes:

1.1 describe the discipline of sociology as a social science through the examination of selected social Issues

• Define social science. • Define sociology. • Differentiate sociology from other social sciences,

including anthropology and psychology. • Describe the ways in which sociologists examine the

world.

1.2 demonstrate an understanding of major sociological perspectives

What is “Social Science”

The study of human society and of individual relationships in and to society.

What is Sociology?

The study of human social behaviour, especially the origins, organization, institutions, and development of human society.Sociology is a group of social sciences composed of psychology, anthropology, cultural studies, education, economics, social work, and linguistics.

Why study Sociology?It prepares us for change

Develops our appreciation of diversity.

Fosters an understanding of learning.

Increases our understanding of human behaviour, social organization, and

culture.

Helps us look more objectively at the society in which we live.

Aides our understanding of how the parts of society fit together as well as the

causes and consequences of social change.

Helps us better understand ourselves and the motivations of others around

us.

Major Sociological Perspectives

FunctionalismConflictSymbolic InteractionismFeminismPost-modern

Functionalism Society works logically, protecting the

interests of most of its members.

Societies must carry out vital functions: reproduce themselves, recruit or produce new members, distribute goods and services, allocation and use of power

Society is viewed as a complex system of parts (structures) that interact to perform various necessary functions

Shared values, norms, attitudes and beliefs (consensus)

Change is generally viewed as disruptive and gradual

Conflict Theory

Conflict is an important and permanent feature of society.Developed by Marxists and neo-MarxistsViews society as a struggle for resources and powerOrganization of society is based on economic organizationChange is often good and inevitable and can be violent

Conflict between the classes determines social changeSome groups prosper at the expense of othersConflict is universal; social consensus is limited and inequality is widespread

Symbolic InteractionistBelief that people can only be understood as individuals and the

symbolic importance they attach to their interactions with others.People’s actions and identities are a product of what their past experiences have led them to expect is proper behavior.Studies society through interactions within individual and small groupsInteraction between individuals is negotiated through shared symbols, gestures  and nonverbal communicationsHumans are social animals and require interactionAsks the questions: “How do individuals experience one another?”, “How do they interpret the meaning of these interactions?” and “How do people construct a sense of self and the society as a whole?”

Feminist

Focuses on gender inequalities in modern society.We have traditionally lived in a male dominated (patriarchal) society. Men possess a greater share of economic and social privilege and power.The exploitation and subordination of women is widespread in our society.Focuses on women’s issues and perspectives on current social problems.Gender roles and the inequalities they create are a product of the society in which we live. They are not caused by nature (biology).Society teaches and reinforces established gender inequalities through the way in which we are raised and educated.

Post Modern

All truth within a postmodern context is relative to one's viewpoint or stance.Information is central to our society. Many people work in occupations that either create information or provide it for others.Daily consumption of a wide variety of goods and services plays a significant role in our lives. We live in a “consumer society”.Our daily lives are shaped by electronic technologies that allow us to communicate with others in our society and around the world almost instantly. These technologies have an important influence in shaping our daily behavior

Theory versus Perspective

What’s the diff?Theory: a set of logically, interrelated statements that attempts to describe, explain, and (occasionally) predict social events.Perspective: an overall approach to or viewpoint on some subject.

Develop your understanding:

Complete the chapter questions for Chapter 1 & 2.