Page 15 - Sociology and You

Why Should You Study Sociology?
If someone in the United States is asked why he or she acted in a certain way, most of us would expect the per- son to provide an explanation that described the causes of the behavior in terms of his or her individual choices. Americans are generally taught to think that they totally determine their own thoughts, feelings, and actions. However, sociologists recognize that the groups, or social structures, that one belongs to have a profound influence over the way individuals think, feel, and act. Sociology provides tools to understand what these social structures are, how they affect our beliefs and behaviors, and how individuals relate to each other. Developing a sociologi- cal imagination—the mindset that enables individuals to see the relationship between events in their personal lives and events in their society—will help you to see how social forces affect your life in a way that a more individ- ualistic perspective does not.
What Should You Expect?
As you begin your study of sociology, you will probably find that it is very different from other classes you have taken. This is because sociology looks at groups rather than at individuals. It is this focus on groups, rather than on individuals, that distinguishes sociology from psychology, the study of indi- vidual behavior. Although sociology employs a distinct perspective, it does share some common features with other social sciences, including anthro- pology, psychology, economics, political science, and history. You will find elements of all of these disciplines in this sociology textbook. You will also find that you will begin to look at your life and your interactions with other people and with social institutions in a different way as you proceed through this course.
Sociologists as Scientists
In your study of sociology, you will learn to think like a social scientist. Scientists constantly question their own assumptions and look for alternative evidence and conclusions. All scientists—including sociologists—use the scientific method as a problem-solving tool. It teaches them to think critically by encour- aging open-mindedness, intellectual curiosity, and evaluation of reasons. Using the scientific method will help you think critically and be objective when apply- ing sociological principles to everyday events, issues, and problems.
Sociologists recognize the influence that groups have on individuals.
Sociology Handbook HB-1