Introduction to Sociology

Course Description

This course is an introduction to the set of perspectives on human life that allows us to understand how our personal lives are affected by our place in society. It explores ways of looking at the world that allow us to understand how the events and experiences of our lives are part of group dynamics, of social institutions, and of cultural meanings. It allows us to see personal events and meanings as affected by historical forces and to see how historical events may be shaped by personal choices.

Topics and Objectives

Sociological Perspective

• Define sociology and distinguish it from other social sciences.
• Identify the major contributors to the field of sociology.
• Distinguish between the social conflict, structural-functional, and symbolic interaction perspectives in sociology.
• Examine how sociology attempts to explain features of the social world by looking at it in a unique way.

Cultural Concepts

• Examine the components of culture, including norms, roles, statuses and how culture is learned, transmitted, and inherited.
• Describe cultural relativism and its impact on social relationships and processes.
• Explain the concept of deviance and ways it can manifest itself in different societies.

Science of Sociology

• Define the steps of the scientific method.
• Explore various research designs and ethical concerns of research.

Socialization

• Describe major agents of socialization over the course of life.
• Define the elements of the social self.

Communities

• Describe the basic types of communities.
• Examine different types of groups and formal organizations as they relate to the community.
• Identify community problems and their effects.

Social Groups and Organizations

• Identify the major social groups and organizations.
• Explain the functions of social groups and organizations.

Population

• Explain the role of population dynamics in society.

Stratification

• Identify systems of social stratification.
• Explain how social class differences affect attitudes and behavior.
• Describe the process of social mobility and its relation to social stratification.

Social Change

• Analyze current cultural, structural, ecological, demographic, and technological influences on social change.
• Describe how social changes will affect or have already affected your personal and professional lives.