(Modules 1 & 2) Chapter 1 & 2: Introduction to Sociology & What do Sociologists do? Flashcards
05/09-12/09
What is sociology?
The scientific study of human society and social behaviour, focusing on social interactions, institutions, and conflicts.
What is the sociological imagination?
It helps us see and understand society critically by examining how individual experiences are linked to larger societal structures.
What is the difference between concrete and abstract experience?
Concrete: Physical sensations and empirical experiences.
Abstract: Concepts and meanings derived from interpreting concrete experiences.
What is the social construction of reality?
The idea that our perception of reality is shaped by social facts, guidelines, and experiences.
Define ideology.
A set of values, beliefs, or principles through which a person views the world, often supporting social, political, or economic theories.
What is consumerism?
The dominant worldview that happiness comes from acquiring material possessions.
What is functionalism?
A sociological perspective that views society as interconnected parts working together to maintain stability.
What is symbolic interactionism?
A perspective focusing on how individuals interact and assign meanings to everyday activities.
What is Erving Goffman’s theory of self-presentation?
People act differently in front stage (public) and back stage (private) settings, showing different aspects of their identity.
What does conflict theory emphasize?
It focuses on power struggles and inequalities between social groups, often driven by economic and social structures.
What is the focus of feminism in sociology?
It critiques patriarchy and seeks to address gender inequalities in social, political, and economic spheres.
How does Karl Marx describe capitalism?
A system where the bourgeoisie (owners) exploit the proletariat (workers) for profit.
What are some sociological research methods?
Surveys, interviews, participant observation, ethnography, content analysis, and secondary data experiments.
What is mixed-method research?
A research approach combining both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods.
Provide an example of race and judicial disparities in Canada.
Indigenous youth represent 41% of those in correctional facilities, despite making up only 8% of the population.
