Chapter 1 Flashcards
Sociology
systematic study of human society
Sociological Perspective
point of view that sees the general patterns of society in the lives of particular people
General in the Particular
general patterns in the behaviour of particular people
general categories shape our experiences
age, gender, ethnicity
Strange in the Familiar
society shapes our decisions
Global Perspective
Study of the larger world and our society’s place in it
Where we live shapes the lives we lead-
high, middle, low income countries
Societies are increasingly interconnected
What happens in the rest of the world affects you
Social problems are more serious in other parts of the world
Thinking globally helps us learn more about ourselves
Positivism
Scientific approach to knowledge based on positive facts rather than speculation
Scientific method, empiricism
Structural Functionalism
Viewing society as a complex system (social structures and functions) whose parts work together to promote solidarity and stability
Social Structure
any relatively stable pattern of social behaviour
Social Functions
The consequence of a social pattern for the operation of society as a whole
Manifest Functions
Recognized, intended consequences of a social pattern
Latent Function
Unrecognized, unintended consequences of a social pattern
Social Dysfunction
Social pattern that disrupts society
Social- Conflict Approach
Views society as an arena of inequality that generates conflict and change
Gender- Conflict Theory (Feminist Theory)
Study of Society that focuses in inequality and conflict between men and women
Race- Conflict Theory
Study of society that focuses on inequality and conflict between people of different racial and ethnic categories
