What is sociology?

The National Socio-Environmental Synthesis Center

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Published 2016-09-26

In this introduction to the discipline of sociology, Dr. Lori Peek overviews the focus, history and approach of sociological inquiry. She defines sociology as the systematic study of society, and the sociological perspective as one that analyzes patterns of individual experience. She identifies several foundation thinkers, including Comte, Marx, Weber and Durkheim, and describes the major theoretical approaches that derive from them. She also focuses on methodological aspects of sociology, defining the scales at which sociologists work and the differences between quantitative and qualitative data gathering and analysis. She highlights some key sociological concepts, including structure and agency, social stratification and inequality. She ends by discussing the future of sociology, and highlights the move toward interdisciplinary work and new methodologies to address wicked problems.

More information on the Immersion Program and other lectures can be found here: www.sesync.org/for-you/educator/programs/immersion.

All Comments (21)

@korleisapp3301 1 year ago

I have always wanted to study sociology some people think the degree isn't worthwhile having. After hearing this lecture I challenge anyone who thinks mal of it. I will be pursuing my studies in sociology. Excellent lecture 👏👏
@jareou 5 years ago

As a sociologist major and under graduate. I have learned a lot. GREAT presentation!
@bappadey2952 5 years ago

The most interesting thing about social is learning about human characteristics and their role in society. And also how one's characteristic is different from others
@lujainalgadi6696 5 years ago

This was one if the best presentation I've ever seen!! Thanks for explaining !
@chernoralgassimubah8662 6 years ago

This is the best lecture I have ever had in sociology in my life
@tufailmahmad2449 3 years ago

Just Appreciation ! Thank you so much ! You have created a background of what is sociology in my mind.
@hlatse98 3 years ago

What a brilliant lecture! Truly exceptional. ❤️
@learnenglishwithsalah347 3 years ago

I ve studied sociology in Arabic when i was at the faculty, here is one of the best lectures i ve ever had .. Especially illustrations and examples ...
@Finess15 3 years ago

what a great lecture....!!! easily understandable....Thank you for this..
@krisiskiss 2 years ago

wow. her discussion is enriching. she discusses it in a clear and simple way.
@tsoiboy4073 5 months ago

I came here as someone who researched at the fringes of sociology and really enjoyed this interesting and informative presentation, which has given me some pause for reflection on my own work. Thank you!
@eveharmony7426 3 years ago

I have ADHD and I hyper focused on this lecture Amazing!
@TheMustang064 6 years ago

Excellent lesson. Specially the explanation of sociology at the beginning with the exemple of the building
@liz_ayla623 2 years ago

I now understand way much better....and also the short notes you give are really helping
@elesavigil4985 6 years ago

She was the best professor ever!!!
@alexandranatashasahoye555 3 years ago

The best lecture on the subject thanks . Simple and easy to follow.
@suryaprakashs34 4 years ago

Any sociology lovers here
@msbaqir606 1 year ago

One of the best lecture in the history.
@dwijenmallick8624 3 years ago

Excellent lecture with lot of perspectives of Sociological thoughts and insights.
@phillipchavez1321 3 years ago

Wow! Dr. Lori Peek is amazing! She's awesome 👌