📘 Chapter 1: Sociology and Society

1. Origin of Sociology

• Sociology emerged in Europe in the 19th century.

• Influenced by major historical changes:

  • French Revolution (1789): Challenged monarchy, church, and feudalism → introduced democracy and equality.

  • Industrial Revolution (18th–19th century): Urbanisation, factories, capitalism, class conflict.

• Early sociologists studied these transformations.

Important thinkers:

• Auguste Comte (1798–1857): “Father of Sociology”; coined the term Sociology.

• Emile Durkheim: Studied division of labour, suicide, religion.

• Karl Marx: Studied class struggle and capitalism.

• Max Weber: Focused on social action, authority, religion.

2. Definition of Sociology

• Sociology is the systematic and scientific study of society, human groups, and social interactions.

• According to Comte: Sociology is the science of society.

3. Difference Between Sociology and Common Sense

• Common Sense:

  • Based on everyday knowledge/experience.

  • Often untested and biased.

• Sociology:

  • Based on systematic study, observation, evidence.

  • Objective and verifiable.

4. Nature/Features of Sociology

1. Scientific discipline.

2. Studies human behaviour in groups.

3. Concerned with institutions (family, marriage, economy, politics).

4. Interdisciplinary – connected with economics, political science, anthropology, psychology, and history.

5. Helps understand social issues and promotes social change.

5. Importance of Sociology

• Helps to understand social institutions.

• Creates awareness about inequality, caste, gender, poverty.

• Builds critical thinking against prejudices and stereotypes.

• Provides tools for planning and policy-making.