Module 1 Flashcards
(18 cards)
The ability to see the link between personal experiences (biography) and wider social and historical forces (history).
Sociological Imagination
That individuals can understand their own lives by locating themselves within their historical and societal context.
the “Promise” of the sociological imagination
What is the “Promise” of the sociological imagination?
That individuals can understand their own lives by locating themselves within their historical and societal context.
What is the Sociological Imagination?
The ability to see the link between personal experiences (biography) and wider social and historical forces (history).
A problem experienced by an individual within their immediate setting or personal milieu.
Personal Trouble.
A societal problem rooted in the structure or institutions of society, affecting many people.
Public Issue
The immediate environment or social context in which a person lives
milieu
The mental ability to understand and connect personal life to social structure.
quality of mind`
Personal Trouble vs. Public Issue — what’s the difference?
Troubles are individual and local; issues are widespread and institutional.
What is the main goal of the sociological imagination?
To help people understand their lives in the context of broader social and historical forces.
What does Mills say about “feeling trapped”?
People feel trapped when they can’t connect their problems to larger social patterns.
Why is sociological imagination important today?
It helps us make sense of rapid social changes and global events affecting daily life.
How do social structures affect individuals?
They determine access to education, jobs, power, and even personal relationships.
How does history influence biography?
Social transformations (e.g., wars, capitalism) shape people’s roles and life chances.
It is the Values, that are cherished and not threatened.
“well-being”
Cherished values are threatened, either personally or socially
crisis
Neither values nor threats are felt — emotional detachment from society.
indifference
A sense that something is wrong without clear values or threats defined.
uneasiness
