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HSP3M
Introduction to Sociology
Sociology
Studies human behaviour, often (but not
always) from the perspective of the
society or social grouping.
 Three main areas:

– Functional
– Conflict
– Symbolic

Each type represents a different
perspective on how we can best
understand societal formation and
interaction.
Societies are like the human body – a
Functional complex series of inter-related parts that
allow the complete person to function
properly.
Conflict Conflict identifies and defines societies,
often from a class basis. Conflict theory
generally centres around goods
distribution (the haves and have-nots).
Symbolic Societies are best studied from a
smaller perspective, usually with a focus
on symbolic representations (i.e. the
Canadian flag).
Society
Latin translation is “a friendly association
with others”
 Dictionary definition is “a highly structured
system of human organization for largescale community living that normally
furnishes protection, continuity, security,
and a national identity for its members.”

Social Interaction
Sociologists often research how individuals
and groups function, develop, survive, and
thrive
 Sociologists pose important questions
concerning how our societies function and
interact

Important Questions
why do societies form and function?
 what pros and cons do societies offer?
 what is deemed ‘normal’ and how should
‘abnormality’ be dealt with?
 what social problems exist and how can
they be overcome?
 how do changes (technological, societal,
political, etc) affect groups and societal
perceptions?

Written vs. Unwritten Rules
Rules are important for society to function,
but not all are written
 What are some examples of written rules
and unwritten rules?
 Who comes up with these rules?
 Why do we follow them?

Written Rules
Constitution
 Charter of Rights and Freedoms
 Criminal Code
 City’s By-Laws
 Fulford Student Handbook

City of Ottawa By Laws

By Law Index
Unwritten Rules

Can you think of any?
Think about meeting and talking to people
 Eating
 Travelling

Ants





Does an ant colony fit
the definition of
society?
structured system
large-scale
community
furnishes protection,
continuity, security
Ants in action
Facebook
Is Facebook a
society?
 structured system
 large-scale
community
 furnishes protection,
continuity, security?

Critique of Facebook





Read the article and answer the following
questions:
Why does Hodgkinson “despise Facebook”?
Is his claim that Facebook encourages people
to “construct an artificial representation” of
themselves accurate?
What are the key differences between
conventional society and the one that exists on
Facebook?
Do you agree or disagree with Hodgkinson’s
stance? Why?
Homework Question
Consider the impact of social networking
(like facebook, twitter, etc.) on society and
on relationships
 Are these “virtual communities” good or
bad for society?
