The scientific study of human society and behavior, with a focus on understanding how sociological imagination impacts on society through various theoretical perspectives and research methods.
- Sociology examines both micro-level interactions between individuals and macro-level social structures through three main theoretical perspectives: structural functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism
- Structural functionalism macro micro analysis views society as an interconnected system where all parts serve specific functions
- Research methods in sociology combine quantitative approaches for broad patterns and qualitative techniques for deeper understanding
- The field emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between correlation and causation in social phenomena
- Modern sociology employs mixed methods research to provide comprehensive insights into social issues