Week 1-2. Introduction to Sociology


1.     Summary

Sociology is the study of exploring the fundamental principles of society and revealing the unified relationships of various social phenomenon. In sociology, using various social research techniques and conduct an empirical survey then analyze the results. The goal of sociology is to study society and understand the structure of society from a micro to macro view.

It emerged in the early 19th century in response to the challenges of modernity. Sociologists responded to these changes that caused by increasing mobility and technological advances by trying to understand what holds social groups together and also exploring possible solutions to the breakdown of social solidarity.

 Early sociological studies considered the field to be similar to the natural sciences, in the past, sociology focused on the organization of complex, industrial societies and their influence on individuals. But nowadays sociologists study a broad range of topics. From macro structures such as race or ethnicity, social class, gender, and institutions such as the family to micro structures such as interpersonal interactions and the socialization of individuals.


2.     Interesting

The difference between past and present sociological research is interesting. In the past, sociological studies focused on the organization of complex, industrial societies and their influence on individuals. But todays sociological studies focused on not only macro structures but also micro structures. This point was interesting for me. I didn’t think about the difference between past and present sociological research but by this class I learn about this deeply.

 

3.     Discussion

I can’t distinguish examples between sociology and social science clearly. I understand the difference between sociology and social science through this class. But I still don’t understand “Why is sociology included in social science when it is the same social study?”.

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