Sociological Imagination
SOCIOLOGY "" ESSAY The study of the social world in addition to sociological imagination contests the individualistic and naturalistic approach to the analysis of social forces that mould human behaviour in contemporary society. The interrelated social concepts that influence human behaviour challenge both explanations through suggested theories, empirical investigation and critical analysis hence, illustrate difference in perception.
A direct interpretation of sociology, as defined by the writers of the text, "˜Sociology: Themes and Perspectives' is, "¦"˜ the study of society.' (R. Van Krieken, P. Smith, D. Habibis, K. McDonald, M. Haralambos, M. Holborn 2000:05). The study reveals mixed assumptions and perspectives of the institutions of the social world and how it influences the development of social behaviour. It challenges ideas and factors outside an individual for the pattern of human behaviour, that is, an external view. (E.C. Cuff & G.C.F. Payne 1979:09).
Understanding the patterns of individuals and groups in society as a whole is accepted as a scientific venture. Thus, it engages in theoretical assumptions that are empirically tested via systematic methodology and critically analysed after research results are displayed. (A. Giddens 1997:12). Sociology can only act as a window, suggesting viewpoints that may assist in a greater understanding of society. It will never determine the "˜truth' as a concluding result. (E.C. Cuff & G.C.F. Payne 1979:09).
The distinctive characteristic of sociology is the concept of being able to think beyond what is logically obvious in a particular situation concerning an individual or a whole population. It also reflects the position of an individual within the barriers of a social institution within society. This concept is referred to as "˜sociological imagination.' Author of "˜The Sociological Imagination: The Promise', C. Wright Mills, establishes the significance of "˜personal troubles', stating that, "˜Troubles
A direct interpretation of sociology, as defined by the writers of the text, "˜Sociology: Themes and Perspectives' is, "¦"˜ the study of society.' (R. Van Krieken, P. Smith, D. Habibis, K. McDonald, M. Haralambos, M. Holborn 2000:05). The study reveals mixed assumptions and perspectives of the institutions of the social world and how it influences the development of social behaviour. It challenges ideas and factors outside an individual for the pattern of human behaviour, that is, an external view. (E.C. Cuff & G.C.F. Payne 1979:09).
Understanding the patterns of individuals and groups in society as a whole is accepted as a scientific venture. Thus, it engages in theoretical assumptions that are empirically tested via systematic methodology and critically analysed after research results are displayed. (A. Giddens 1997:12). Sociology can only act as a window, suggesting viewpoints that may assist in a greater understanding of society. It will never determine the "˜truth' as a concluding result. (E.C. Cuff & G.C.F. Payne 1979:09).
The distinctive characteristic of sociology is the concept of being able to think beyond what is logically obvious in a particular situation concerning an individual or a whole population. It also reflects the position of an individual within the barriers of a social institution within society. This concept is referred to as "˜sociological imagination.' Author of "˜The Sociological Imagination: The Promise', C. Wright Mills, establishes the significance of "˜personal troubles', stating that, "˜Troubles