FIRST SAMESTER B.A. in Sociology

 

Meaning of Sociology

Sociology is the scientific study of social life, social groups, and societies. It is a social science that focuses on the behavior of human beings in society. Sociology studies the social relationships of man with man and social interactions. It is the scientific study of social relationships, their variety, their forms and whatever affects them.

Nature of Sociology

Sociology is a scientific discipline. It uses scientific methods to study social phenomena. Sociologists collect data through observation, surveys, and interviews, and then analyze it using statistical and qualitative methods. Sociology is also empirical, meaning that it is based on observable facts and evidence.

Sociology is also a holistic discipline. It studies society as a whole, as well as the individual parts that make up society. Sociologists are interested in how different aspects of society, such as the economy, politics, religion, and culture, interact with each other.

Scope of Sociology

Sociology is a broad discipline that encompasses a wide range of topics. Some of the major areas of study in sociology include:

• Social institutions: family, education, religion, government, economy
• Social groups: social class, race and ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation
• Social processes: socialization, social interaction, social change
• Social problems: crime, poverty, homelessness, discrimination, inequality

Sociology and Common Sense

Common sense is the knowledge and beliefs that we acquire through everyday life experiences. It is often based on personal observations and assumptions. Sociology, on the other hand, is based on systematic research and evidence.

Common sense can be useful for understanding the world around us, but it can also be misleading. For example, we may have common sense beliefs about why people commit crime, but these beliefs may not be accurate. Sociology can help us to challenge our common sense beliefs and to develop a more nuanced understanding of social phenomena.

Sociology as a Science

Sociology is a science because it uses scientific methods to study social phenomena. Sociologists collect data through observation, surveys, and interviews, and then analyze it using statistical and qualitative methods. Sociology is also empirical, meaning that it is based on observable facts and evidence.

Humanistic Orientation in Sociology

Sociology is a humanistic discipline because it is interested in the human experience. Sociologists are concerned with understanding the motivations and actions of individuals, as well as the social forces that shape their lives.

History and Emergence of Sociology in India

Sociology as a discipline emerged in India in the late 19th century. This was a time of great social and political change in India, as the British colonial government was expanding its control over the country. Indian sociologists were interested in studying the impact of colonialism on Indian society, as well as the social problems that were emerging, such as poverty and inequality.

Some of the early pioneers of sociology in India include:

• G.S. Ghurye (1893-1983): Ghurye is considered to be the father of Indian sociology. He was a prolific writer and researcher, and he made significant contributions to the study of caste, family, and religion in India.
• M.N. Srinivas (1916-1999): Srinivas was another leading figure in Indian sociology. He was known for his work on social stratification, village life, and modernization.
• Andre Beteille (1934-2018): Beteille was a renowned sociologist who studied a wide range of topics, including caste, class, gender, and religion. He was also a vocal critic of social inequality and injustice.

Indian Examples

Here are some Indian examples of sociological research:

• A study of the impact of the Green Revolution on rural Indian society
• A study of the social factors that contribute to poverty in India
• A study of the changing role of women in Indian society
• A study of the rise of caste-based violence in India
• A study of the impact of social media on Indian politics

Conclusion

Sociology is a broad and diverse discipline that studies all aspects of social life. It is a scientific discipline that uses rigorous methods to collect and analyze data. Sociology is also a humanistic discipline that is interested in the human experience. Indian sociologists have made significant contributions to the study of social phenomena in India.

Example of a Research Question in Sociology

What are the factors that contribute to the social exclusion of Dalits in India?

This research question could be investigated using a variety of sociological methods, such as surveys, interviews, and focus groups. The researcher could collect data from Dalits, non-Dalits