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Aaliyah
12/7/2025
Sociology
Introduction to sociology
249
•
Dec 7, 2025
•
Understanding the Basics of Sociology
Aaliyah
@aa_032
1 / 5
Introduction to Sociology
Norms are basically the unwritten (and written) rules that guide how we behave in society. Think about how you automatically queue up at the shop or stay quiet in a library - these are norms that reveal what we value as a society.
Socialisation is how you learn to be part of your culture and society. Primary socialisation happens early in your life, mainly through your family who teach you basic values and behaviours. Secondary socialisation occurs later when you learn specific behaviours for different groups - like how to behave at school, in religious settings, or what you pick up from social media.
The main agents of socialisation include your family, school, community, religious leaders, and the media. Each of these influences how you see the world and what you consider normal or acceptable behaviour.
Quick Tip: You can see socialisation in action by comparing how you behave at home versus at school - different settings, different expected behaviours!
Values, Culture and Social Status
Values are your core beliefs about what's right and wrong, whilst culture refers to the overall way of life in your society. Understanding these helps explain why different societies have different norms and expectations.
Feral children (those raised without human contact) show us just how crucial socialisation is - without it, people struggle to function in society. This proves that being "human" in a social sense is actually learned, not automatic.
Status refers to the respect and prestige attached to particular roles in society. There are two main types: ascribed status (what you're born into, like being part of the royal family) and achieved status (what you earn through your own efforts, like becoming a doctor through education and hard work).
Roles are simply the set of behaviours expected from someone with a particular status. If you're a student, your role includes attending classes and completing assignments.
Remember: Status is your position in society, whilst role is how you're expected to behave in that position.
Understanding Social Perspectives
A sociological perspective is simply a way of looking at and understanding society. There are different approaches that sociologists use to make sense of how society works and why people behave the way they do.
The main divide in sociology is between structural approaches and social action approaches .
Consensus refers to agreement and solidarity in society - the idea that most people share similar values and beliefs about how things should work. This concept is central to understanding how societies maintain order and stability.
Think About It: Consider how your school works - there's general agreement about rules and expectations, which keeps everything running smoothly.
Functionalism Theory
Functionalism is a major sociological theory that views society like a human body - every part has a specific function that helps the whole system work properly. Founded by Émile Durkheim, this theory suggests that everything in society exists because it serves a useful purpose.
According to functionalists, society maintains social solidarity through shared values and beliefs. The collective conscience represents society's shared beliefs about what's right and wrong, creating a moral framework that guides behaviour.
Value consensus means that most people in society agree on basic values and norms. Functionalists argue this agreement is essential for society to function smoothly, just like how all your body parts need to work together for you to stay healthy.
The theory follows a hierarchy: individuals form groups, groups create institutions (like schools or government), and institutions work together to maintain society as a whole.
Real-World Example: Think about how schools function - they educate students (manifest function) but also teach social skills and create friendships (latent functions).
Key Concepts Summary
Consensus simply means agreement and solidarity within society. This concept runs through much of sociological theory and helps explain how societies manage to function despite having millions of different individuals with their own wants and needs.
Understanding consensus is crucial because it shows how shared values and beliefs create stability in society, even when people come from different backgrounds and have different personal experiences.
Final Thought: Sociology gives you the tools to understand the social world around you - from family dynamics to global issues, these concepts help explain why society works the way it does.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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Students love us — and so will you.
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
Understanding the Basics of Sociology
Aaliyah
@aa_032
Sociology is all about understanding how people behave in groups and what shapes our actions in society. This guide covers the fundamental building blocks of sociology - from how we learn to fit into society through socialisation, to the different... Show more
Introduction to Sociology
Norms are basically the unwritten (and written) rules that guide how we behave in society. Think about how you automatically queue up at the shop or stay quiet in a library - these are norms that reveal what we value as a society.
Socialisation is how you learn to be part of your culture and society. Primary socialisation happens early in your life, mainly through your family who teach you basic values and behaviours. Secondary socialisation occurs later when you learn specific behaviours for different groups - like how to behave at school, in religious settings, or what you pick up from social media.
The main agents of socialisation include your family, school, community, religious leaders, and the media. Each of these influences how you see the world and what you consider normal or acceptable behaviour.
Quick Tip: You can see socialisation in action by comparing how you behave at home versus at school - different settings, different expected behaviours!
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Values, Culture and Social Status
Values are your core beliefs about what's right and wrong, whilst culture refers to the overall way of life in your society. Understanding these helps explain why different societies have different norms and expectations.
Feral children (those raised without human contact) show us just how crucial socialisation is - without it, people struggle to function in society. This proves that being "human" in a social sense is actually learned, not automatic.
Status refers to the respect and prestige attached to particular roles in society. There are two main types: ascribed status (what you're born into, like being part of the royal family) and achieved status (what you earn through your own efforts, like becoming a doctor through education and hard work).
Roles are simply the set of behaviours expected from someone with a particular status. If you're a student, your role includes attending classes and completing assignments.
Remember: Status is your position in society, whilst role is how you're expected to behave in that position.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
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By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Understanding Social Perspectives
A sociological perspective is simply a way of looking at and understanding society. There are different approaches that sociologists use to make sense of how society works and why people behave the way they do.
The main divide in sociology is between structural approaches and social action approaches .
Consensus refers to agreement and solidarity in society - the idea that most people share similar values and beliefs about how things should work. This concept is central to understanding how societies maintain order and stability.
Think About It: Consider how your school works - there's general agreement about rules and expectations, which keeps everything running smoothly.
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Functionalism Theory
Functionalism is a major sociological theory that views society like a human body - every part has a specific function that helps the whole system work properly. Founded by Émile Durkheim, this theory suggests that everything in society exists because it serves a useful purpose.
According to functionalists, society maintains social solidarity through shared values and beliefs. The collective conscience represents society's shared beliefs about what's right and wrong, creating a moral framework that guides behaviour.
Value consensus means that most people in society agree on basic values and norms. Functionalists argue this agreement is essential for society to function smoothly, just like how all your body parts need to work together for you to stay healthy.
The theory follows a hierarchy: individuals form groups, groups create institutions (like schools or government), and institutions work together to maintain society as a whole.
Real-World Example: Think about how schools function - they educate students (manifest function) but also teach social skills and create friendships (latent functions).
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Key Concepts Summary
Consensus simply means agreement and solidarity within society. This concept runs through much of sociological theory and helps explain how societies manage to function despite having millions of different individuals with their own wants and needs.
Understanding consensus is crucial because it shows how shared values and beliefs create stability in society, even when people come from different backgrounds and have different personal experiences.
Final Thought: Sociology gives you the tools to understand the social world around you - from family dynamics to global issues, these concepts help explain why society works the way it does.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
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4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user