SOC101Y1 Lecture Notes - Social Philosophy, Generic Point, Industrial Revolution
Document Summary
Sociology is the systematic study of human action in social context. It is based on the idea that our relations with other people create opportunities for us to think and act but also set limits on our thoughts and action. Sociology is an elastic discipline that shares some elements in common with many other fields (history, psychology, philosophy, others). Underlying sociology is philosophy and its concepts of: Early social philosophers contributed to classical sociology theory through these fundamental tenets: Thomas hobbes"s assertion that government"s appropriate role lies in preserving peace while allowing individuals to pursue their self-interests. John locke"s belief in individual freedom and autonomy. Charles de montesquieu"s comparative methodology and his appreciation for cultural diversity. Jean-jacques rousseau"s analysis of the social contract and his belief in individual autonomy. The scientific revolution (16th century) encouraged the use of evidence to substantiate theories. The democratic revolution (18th century) encouraged the view that human action can change society.
