SociologyÂ
ESSENTIAL UNDERSTANDING
Sociology is the systematic study of human social behavior and society. Sociologists examine how people interact with each other, how social groups and institutions are organized, and how societies change over time.
ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS
What is the relationship between the individual and society?
How does society shape the individual?
How does the individual shape society?
What is the balance of power between individuals and society?
What are the major social institutions?
What are the functions of the family, education, religion, economy, and government?
How do these institutions socialize individuals and maintain social order?
How do these institutions reproduce or challenge social inequality?
What is social inequality?
What are the different forms of social inequality, such as class, race, gender, and sexuality?
What are the causes and consequences of social inequality?
How can we reduce social inequality?
How does social change occur?
What are the different factors that contribute to social change?
What are the different types of social change, such as reform, revolution, and counterrevolution?
How can we promote positive social change?
