Before attempting to explain sociology let us discuss the misconceptions people often have regarding the subject. When people hear the word sociology they relate the subject to social welfare or helping poor and unfortunate. Some people relate sociology to socialism and some think that sociology is the study of people. However, the word sociology is the combination of Latin and Greek words. The word “socio” is derived from Latin word “socius” which has various meaning including, association, companionship and society. Whereas, the word “logy” is derived from Greek word “logos” which literally means “word or to speak about” but, the term is interpreted as study or science.
We can define Sociology as the scientific study of society and human behavior. It is among one of the pivotal branches of social sciences. Subject matter of sociology is based on empirical research. Society is the product of social interactions, culture, groups, associations, social institutions, etc… In other words, society can be defined as the group of people who share same culture and live in defined geographical territory. Moreover, Sociology covers every aspect of society. Whether, its interaction between two people or, relationship between two societies. People of different societies may behave differently in a similar situation and sociologists tend to determine the patterns which influence the behavior of individuals within a society.
Furthermore, Society can be studied on both micro and macro level. For instance, on micro level sociologists might study or analyze, the accepted way of communication in small groups it could be the group of students or the group of professional bankers. On macro level, sociologist might study or analyze how social media or electronic media influence the behavior of people within a society or in different societies.
SOCIETY, CULTURE AND SOCIAL IMAGINATION;
To comprehend the definition of sociology readers must understand the two concepts; society and culture. “Society” refers to a group of people who live in defined geographical area and share similar culture. Whereas, “culture” refers to the way of life shared by a group of people which include, daily routine and everyday interactions. Furthermore, sociologist study culture via the concept social imagination. The concept was pioneered by C.W Mills. According to Mills social imagination is the relationship between the individuals’ behavior and experiences. In other words, it determines the influence of culture and social structure on individuals’ behavior, choices and perception.
