Download Sociology and the Social Sciences

Sociology: a Social Science
Outcomes:
1.1 describe the discipline of sociology as a social science
through the examination of selected social Issues
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• 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
Functionalism
Conflict
Symbolic Interactionism
Feminism
Post-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-Marxists
Views society as a struggle for resources and power
Organization of society is based on economic organization
Change is often good and inevitable and can be violent
Conflict between the classes determines social change
Some groups prosper at the expense of others
Conflict is universal; social consensus is limited and inequality is
widespread
Symbolic Interactionist
Belief 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
groups
Interaction between individuals is negotiated through shared
symbols, gestures and nonverbal communications
Humans are social animals and require interaction
Asks 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.