What is Sociology Meaning of Sociology and Definition of Sociology

Summary

In this video, the host explores the field of sociology, focusing on its meaning, definition, and history. Sociology is described as the study of human society and social behavior, examining how individuals interact within social groups and how institutions shape behavior and beliefs. The term was first coined by Auguste Comte in 1838, who is considered the father of sociology. The video also highlights scholarly definitions from figures like Harry Johnson, Max Weber, and Kingsley Davis, emphasizing the scientific nature of sociology and its role in understanding and improving social structures.

Takeaways

• 😀 Sociology is the study of human society and social behavior, examining how people interact in social groups.
• 😀 Sociology explores how social structures and institutions shape individual behavior, attitudes, and beliefs.
• 😀 The term 'sociology' combines the Latin word 'socius' (meaning companion or associate) and the Greek word 'logos' (meaning study or knowledge).
• 😀 Sociology was first coined by French philosopher Auguste Comte in 1838, who is considered the father of sociology.
• 😀 Comte believed sociology should be a scientific discipline based on empirical observation and analysis of social behavior.
• 😀 The primary goal of sociology, according to Comte, is to understand the laws that govern human social behavior and promote social progress.
• 😀 Comte's theories on social structure, social function, and social evolution continue to influence contemporary sociology.
• 😀 Harry Johnson defined sociology as the science dealing with social groups.
• 😀 Horton and Hunt defined sociology as the scientific study of human social life.
• 😀 Max Weber defined sociology as the science attempting to interpretively understand social action.
• 😀 Kingsley Davis viewed sociology as a general science of society, encompassing a broad study of societal aspects.

Q & A

What is sociology?

Sociology is the study of human society and social behavior. It examines how people interact with each other in social groups and how social structures and institutions influence individual behavior and beliefs.

What does sociology seek to understand?

Sociology seeks to understand how social structures and systems shape human behavior, attitudes, and beliefs, and how individuals and groups navigate the complex social world.

What is the origin of the term 'sociology'?

The term 'sociology' comes from the Latin word 'socius', meaning companion or associate, and the Greek word 'logos', meaning study or knowledge. Together, they suggest the study of companionship or social relationships.

Who coined the term 'sociology'?

The term 'sociology' was first coined by the French philosopher Augusta Comte in 1838.

Why is Augusta Comte referred to as the father of sociology?

Augusta Comte is referred to as the father of sociology because he was the first to develop a comprehensive theory of sociology and use the term 'sociology' to describe the study of human society.

What was Comte's view on sociology?

Comte believed sociology should be a scientific discipline based on empirical observation and analysis. He argued that the goal of sociology was to understand the laws that govern human social behavior.

How did Comte view the role of sociology in society?

Comte saw sociology as a way to promote social progress and improve the quality of human life.

Which of Comte's concepts are still relevant today?

Comte's key concepts, such as social structure, social function, and social evolution, continue to be important in contemporary sociology.

How does Harry Johnson define sociology?

Harry Johnson defines sociology as the science that deals with social groups.

What does Max Weber's definition of sociology emphasize?

Max Weber defines sociology as the science which attempts to interpretively understand social action, emphasizing the understanding of human behavior within a social context.