SOCIOL 3AC Lecture Notes - Lecture 1: Abstract Interpretation, Microsociology, Macrosociology
Document Summary
Identifies underlying social forces in attempt to present a coherent view of how societies work. Society as an empirically based opaque phenomena. We will be using sociological theories to help explain inequality. Grand sociological theories usually have an implicit moral vision about what constitutes a good society and what can harm society. Sociology = not just facts; an attempt to understand how and why things occur. Theories: construct an abstract interpretation that can explain a variety of situations in society based on research. Takes theoretical approach; sociology as a scientific endeavor. Use systematic methods of empirical investigation, analysis of data, theoretical thinking and logical assessments of arguments to develop a body of knowledge about a particular subject matter. You need the microsociology to illuminate broad institutional patterns. Theory (theoretical statements empirical statements) observation conclusion if theory is true or false. A higher degree of individualism in a social group causes a higher rate of suicide in that group.
