Sociology is the scientific study of society, human relationships, social institutions, and social interactions. It is one of the foundational subjects for UGC NET Sociology, and according to the discussion, aspirants should begin their preparation with this topic before moving on to advanced concepts. The session emphasizes that understanding the meaning, origin, and scope of sociology provides the foundation for studying the rest of the syllabus.
This article explains the basic concepts of sociology discussed in the session, including the origin of the term, its meaning, why sociology is considered a science, and the contribution of Auguste Comte.
Enroll UGC NET Online Coaching
Why Should You Start UGC NET Sociology with Basic Concepts?
According to the discussion, “What is Sociology?” is the first topic every UGC NET Sociology aspirant should study.
The speaker explains that many candidates come from science or other academic backgrounds and may have no prior exposure to sociology. Therefore, beginning with the basic concepts helps develop a clear understanding of the subject before studying theories, thinkers, or advanced sociological concepts.
What is Sociology?
According to the discussion, Sociology is commonly described as:
- The Science of Society
- The Study of Society
The session explains that sociology studies:
- Society
- Social relationships
- Social interaction
- Social groups
- Social life
- Social phenomena
Rather than focusing only on individuals, sociology examines how people interact within society and how different social institutions influence human life.
Meaning and Origin of the Word Sociology
The discussion explains that the term Sociology is derived from two different words.
- Socius (Latin word) — meaning Companion
- Logy (Greek word) — meaning Study of
According to the session, combining these two words gives the meaning of sociology as the study of society and social relationships.
Origin of the Term Sociology
| Word | Language | Meaning |
| Socius | Latin | Companion |
| Logy | Greek | Study of |
According to the discussion, understanding the origin of the term is important because questions related to it may appear in competitive examinations.
Sociology as the Scientific Study of Society
The session defines sociology as a scientific study of society.
According to the speaker, sociology is considered scientific because it follows:
- A systematic approach.
- Logical reasoning.
- Scientific methods.
- Structured observation.
The discussion emphasizes that sociological concepts are not based merely on assumptions. Instead, they rely on organized methods of studying society and understanding social phenomena.
What Does Sociology Study?
According to the session, sociology examines various aspects of society, including:
- Individuals
- Social groups
- Social institutions
- Social life
- Social relationships
- Social phenomena
The speaker explains that sociology seeks to understand how people live together, interact with one another, and organize themselves within society.
Why is Sociology Called the Study of Society?
The discussion explains that society is made up of individuals, groups, institutions, and relationships.
Therefore, sociology studies not only people but also the interactions that connect them.
According to the session, sociology also examines:
- Family
- Education
- Religion
- Economy
- Politics
These areas help explain how different institutions influence society and shape social life.
Who Coined the Term Sociology?
According to the discussion, the term Sociology was coined by Auguste Comte in 1839.
The session identifies Auguste Comte as the Father of Sociology and explains that he was a French sociologist.
The speaker also mentions that before using the term “Sociology,” Auguste Comte had referred to the subject as Social Physics. However, after learning that the term had already been used by another scholar, he adopted the name Sociology instead.
Auguste Comte at a Glance
| Feature | Details Mentioned in the Session |
| Title | Father of Sociology |
| Nationality | French Sociologist |
| Year Sociology Term Coined | 1839 |
| Earlier Name Used | Social Physics |
Why is Auguste Comte Important?
According to the discussion, Auguste Comte played an important role in establishing sociology as a separate academic discipline.
The speaker explains that his work laid the foundation for the systematic study of society, making him one of the most important thinkers in sociology.
Basic Overview of Sociology
The session introduces sociology as a discipline that studies society through a systematic and scientific approach.
According to the discussion, sociology focuses on understanding:
- Social interaction
- Culture
- Society
- Social institutions
- Human behaviour within society
These concepts form the basis of later topics covered in UGC NET Sociology.
Key Takeaways from Part 1
| Topic | Key Learning |
| Sociology | Scientific study of society. |
| Origin | Derived from the Latin word Socius and the Greek word Logy. |
| Main Focus | Society, social interaction, groups, institutions, and relationships. |
| Father of Sociology | Auguste Comte. |
| Year | Sociology term coined in 1839. |
| Earlier Name | Social Physics. |
Why is Sociology Called a Science?
One of the most important questions introduced in the session is why sociology is considered a science. Since sociology studies human society rather than physical objects, many beginners often wonder why it is classified as a scientific discipline.
According to the discussion, science is not limited to laboratory experiments or chemical reactions. A subject can be considered scientific if it studies its subject matter objectively, follows a systematic method, and relies on logical reasoning and evidence. Sociology meets these criteria through its structured approach to understanding society.
What Makes Sociology Scientific?
The session explains that sociology follows scientific methods while studying society.
According to the discussion, sociology:
- Uses systematic methods of study.
- Relies on logical reasoning.
- Studies facts objectively.
- Uses empirical observations.
- Explains social phenomena through evidence rather than assumptions.
The speaker emphasizes that sociological concepts are supported by reasoning and organized methods rather than personal opinions.
Understanding Objectivity in Sociology
A key concept discussed in the session is objectivity.
According to the speaker, objectivity means studying facts without personal bias. A fact is something that remains true for everyone and can be verified through observation or evidence.
The discussion explains that sociology attempts to study society using this objective approach instead of depending on individual beliefs or assumptions.
Features of Sociology
The session introduces several important characteristics that define sociology as a discipline.
These features help distinguish sociology from other branches of knowledge and are frequently tested in competitive examinations.
1. Sociology is an Independent Science
According to the discussion, sociology is an independent science because it is not a branch of any other subject.
Although sociology studies areas such as family, economy, politics, education, and religion, it has its own concepts, methods, and scope of study.
| Feature | Explanation from the Discussion |
| Independent Science | Sociology is a separate discipline with its own subject matter. |
2. Sociology is a Social Science
The session explains that sociology is classified as a social science, not a physical science.
Unlike subjects such as physics or chemistry, sociology studies:
- Human behaviour
- Society
- Social institutions
- Social relationships
- Social interaction
Its primary focus is understanding people and their relationships within society.
3. Sociology is a Categorical Science
According to the discussion, sociology is described as a categorical science rather than a normative discipline.
The speaker explains that sociology focuses on understanding and classifying social realities instead of prescribing rules about how people should behave.
It studies categories, groups, and social classifications to understand society systematically.
4. Sociology is a Pure Science
The discussion explains that sociology is considered a pure science rather than an applied science.
According to the speaker, pure sciences focus on developing concepts and theories, whereas applied sciences emphasize practical application.
The session presents sociology as a discipline that primarily develops knowledge about society through systematic study.
Pure Science vs Applied Science
| Pure Science | Applied Science |
| Focuses on developing theories and concepts. | Focuses on applying knowledge to practical problems. |
| Sociology is presented in this category during the discussion. | Mentioned for comparison in the session. |
5. Sociology is an Abstract Science
Another important feature discussed is that sociology is an abstract science.
According to the speaker, sociology studies concepts such as:
- Social relationships
- Human interaction
- Social consciousness
- Social experiences
These concepts cannot be observed as physical objects but can be understood through human behaviour and social interaction.
The discussion explains that sociology studies ideas and relationships rather than tangible objects.
6. Sociology is a General Science
The session states that sociology is a general science because it studies society broadly instead of focusing on one specific individual or institution.
According to the discussion, sociology seeks to understand general social processes that influence society as a whole.
7. Sociology is Rational and Empirical
The discussion also describes sociology as both rational and empirical.
According to the speaker:
- Rational means sociology explains social phenomena through logic and reasoning.
- Empirical means sociology relies on observation and human experience while studying society.
The session emphasizes that empirical knowledge is based on experience rather than speculation.
Major Features of Sociology
| Feature | Description |
| Independent Science | Has its own scope and subject matter. |
| Social Science | Studies society and human behaviour. |
| Categorical Science | Focuses on classification and understanding rather than prescribing norms. |
| Pure Science | Primarily develops theories and concepts. |
| Abstract Science | Studies relationships and social phenomena rather than physical objects. |
| General Science | Examines society as a whole. |
| Rational & Empirical | Uses logic, observation, and experience. |
Major Thinkers Introduced in the Session
Along with Auguste Comte, the discussion briefly introduces several classical sociologists who play an important role in the development of sociology.
| Thinker | Description Mentioned |
| Auguste Comte | Father of Sociology; French sociologist. |
| Émile Durkheim | French sociologist. |
| Max Weber | German sociologist. |
| Karl Marx | German sociologist. |
According to the speaker, these thinkers are studied in detail later in the sociology syllabus and form an essential part of Unit 1.
Key Takeaways from Part 2
| Topic | Key Learning |
| Sociology as a Science | Studies society through objective, systematic, and scientific methods. |
| Independent Science | Has its own discipline and scope. |
| Social Science | Focuses on society and human behaviour. |
| Pure Science | Develops sociological theories and concepts. |
| Abstract Science | Studies social relationships and interactions. |
| Rational & Empirical | Relies on logic, observation, and experience. |
| Important Thinkers | Auguste Comte, Émile Durkheim, Max Weber, and Karl Marx were introduced. |
What is the Subject Matter of Sociology?
After introducing the meaning and characteristics of sociology, the discussion explains what sociology actually studies. This is referred to as the subject matter of sociology, which includes the different areas and approaches through which sociologists understand society.
According to the session, sociology is not limited to studying individuals alone. It examines society from multiple perspectives, including its historical development, contemporary social issues, and the reasons behind various social phenomena.
Alex Inkeles and the Subject Matter of Sociology
The discussion introduces Alex Inkeles, a prominent sociologist whose book What is Sociology? is mentioned as an important reference for understanding the discipline.
According to the session, Alex Inkeles classified the subject matter of sociology into three major approaches:
- Historical Approach
- Empirical Approach
- Analytical Approach
The speaker notes that questions related to this classification have appeared in competitive examinations, making it an important topic for UGC NET aspirants.
Three Approaches to the Subject Matter of Sociology
| Approach | Focus in Sociology |
| Historical | Development of sociology through its founding thinkers |
| Empirical | Contemporary sociological studies and observations |
| Analytical | Understanding the causes and explanations behind social phenomena |
Historical Approach
According to the discussion, the Historical Approach focuses on the evolution of sociology as a discipline.
The session explains that this approach studies:
- The founding fathers of sociology.
- The development of sociological thought.
- The ideas introduced by classical sociologists.
- How sociology emerged as an independent discipline.
Through this approach, students learn how early sociologists contributed to the growth of sociology and shaped its theoretical foundations.
Empirical Approach
The discussion explains that the Empirical Approach examines contemporary sociological work.
According to the speaker, this approach focuses on:
- Current sociological research.
- Contemporary social issues.
- Modern sociological studies.
- Observation-based understanding of society.
The session emphasizes that empirical sociology is based on observation and experience rather than assumptions, making it an important part of scientific inquiry.
Analytical Approach
The third approach discussed in the session is the Analytical Approach.
According to the discussion, this approach attempts to understand the reasons behind social events and social behaviour.
Rather than merely describing what happens in society, sociology also seeks to explain why those events occur.
The speaker explains that identifying the causes behind social phenomena is one of the key objectives of sociological analysis.
Alex Inkeles’ Classification at a Glance
| Subject Matter | What It Studies |
| Historical | Evolution of sociology and contributions of founding thinkers |
| Empirical | Current sociological research and observation-based studies |
| Analytical | Causes and explanations of social phenomena |
Major Areas Studied in Sociology
The discussion explains that sociology covers a wide range of topics because society itself consists of many interconnected institutions and processes.
According to the session, sociology studies:
- Family
- Education
- Religion
- Economy
- Politics
- Culture
- Social interaction
- Social groups
- Human relationships
The speaker notes that sociology attempts to understand how these institutions influence individuals and society as a whole.
Society as an Interconnected System
According to the discussion, sociology does not study each institution in isolation.
Instead, it examines how different parts of society interact with one another.
For example, the session mentions that while studying society, sociologists also examine the influence of:
- Economic conditions.
- Political systems.
- Educational institutions.
- Religious beliefs.
- Family structures.
This broad perspective helps explain social change and social organization.
Important Classical Thinkers Mentioned
The discussion briefly revisits several classical sociologists whose ideas are studied in later units of the syllabus.
| Thinker | Description Mentioned in the Session |
| Auguste Comte | Father of Sociology; French sociologist |
| Émile Durkheim | French sociologist |
| Max Weber | German sociologist |
| Karl Marx | German sociologist |
According to the speaker, these thinkers form an essential part of the foundational study of sociology and are discussed in greater detail later in the course.
Why is Alex Inkeles Important for UGC NET?
The session highlights Alex Inkeles because his classification of sociology’s subject matter is considered examination-oriented.
According to the discussion, aspirants should remember:
- The three approaches.
- Their meanings.
- Their role in understanding sociology.
The speaker specifically notes that questions related to this topic have appeared in previous competitive examinations, making it useful for revision.
Quick Revision Table
| Topic | Key Point |
| Alex Inkeles | Classified the subject matter of sociology into three approaches. |
| Historical Approach | Studies the development of sociology and founding thinkers. |
| Empirical Approach | Focuses on observation and contemporary sociological research. |
| Analytical Approach | Explains the causes behind social events and behaviour. |
| Major Areas | Family, education, religion, economy, politics, culture, and social interaction. |
Key Takeaways from Part 3
| Topic | Key Learning |
| Subject Matter | Sociology studies society through different approaches. |
| Alex Inkeles | Introduced three approaches to understanding sociology. |
| Historical | Focuses on the evolution of sociological thought. |
| Empirical | Studies present-day society through observation and experience. |
| Analytical | Explains the reasons behind social phenomena. |
| Scope | Includes family, religion, education, politics, economy, culture, and social interaction. |
Sociology vs Common Sense
Towards the end of the session, the discussion highlights an important distinction between Sociology and Common Sense. Although both help people understand society, the speaker explains that they are fundamentally different in their approach.
According to the discussion, common sense is largely based on personal experiences, traditions, and widely accepted beliefs, whereas sociology relies on scientific methods, evidence, observation, and logical analysis. This difference makes sociology a systematic discipline rather than a collection of everyday opinions.
Why Sociology is Different from Common Sense
The session explains that sociology does not accept ideas simply because they are popular or widely believed.
Instead, sociologists:
- Examine evidence.
- Conduct systematic studies.
- Analyze facts objectively.
- Question existing assumptions.
- Search for logical explanations behind social behaviour.
According to the speaker, sociology encourages critical thinking instead of accepting beliefs without investigation.
Sociology vs Common Sense: A Comparison
| Sociology | Common Sense |
| Based on research and evidence | Based on personal experience and everyday beliefs |
| Uses scientific methods | Depends on observation without systematic investigation |
| Questions assumptions | Often accepts traditions and stereotypes |
| Seeks logical explanations | Relies on commonly accepted opinions |
| Objective and analytical | Subjective and experience-based |
The discussion emphasizes that sociology seeks verifiable explanations, while common sense may differ from one individual or community to another.
Why Sociology Challenges Stereotypes
According to the session, sociology does not accept stereotypes at face value.
The speaker explains that when a commonly held belief exists in society, sociology attempts to investigate the reasons behind it instead of assuming it is always true.
Rather than accepting generalizations, sociologists ask questions such as:
- What evidence supports this belief?
- Is the assumption universally valid?
- What social factors influence this situation?
- Can research explain the observed pattern?
This analytical approach helps sociology move beyond assumptions toward evidence-based understanding.
Scientific Thinking in Sociology
The discussion explains that sociology follows a scientific process while studying society.
According to the session, sociological thinking includes:
- Observing social behaviour.
- Collecting evidence.
- Using systematic methods.
- Analyzing relationships.
- Drawing logical conclusions.
The speaker emphasizes that sociology studies society through facts and research rather than personal opinions.
Why Evidence Matters in Sociology
A major point highlighted in the discussion is that sociology depends on evidence.
According to the session:
- Conclusions should be supported by facts.
- Research helps verify social observations.
- Scientific methods improve objectivity.
- Logical reasoning strengthens sociological explanations.
This evidence-based approach distinguishes sociology from everyday assumptions.
Examination-Oriented Points from the Session
The discussion highlights several facts that aspirants should remember for competitive examinations.
| Topic | Important Point |
| Origin of Sociology | Derived from the Latin word Socius and the Greek word Logy. |
| Father of Sociology | Auguste Comte |
| Sociology Term Coined | 1839 |
| Earlier Name | Social Physics |
| Alex Inkeles | Classified the subject matter into Historical, Empirical, and Analytical approaches. |
| Sociology | Scientific study of society. |
These factual points were emphasized throughout the discussion as important concepts for beginners and examination preparation.
Preparation Tips from the Session
The speaker concludes by encouraging aspirants to build a strong conceptual foundation before studying advanced sociological theories.
According to the discussion, students should:
- Begin with the basic concepts of sociology.
- Understand important definitions and terminology.
- Remember key thinkers and important years.
- Learn the features of sociology.
- Understand why sociology is considered a science.
- Revise important concepts regularly before moving to advanced topics.
The session also suggests continuing with topics such as the Emergence of Sociology after mastering these foundational concepts.
Conclusion
The discussion introduces sociology as a systematic and scientific discipline that seeks to understand society through observation, logical reasoning, and evidence-based analysis. Beginning with the meaning, origin, characteristics, and subject matter of sociology helps aspirants develop the conceptual clarity required for higher-level topics.
The session also highlights the importance of distinguishing sociology from common sense. Instead of relying on assumptions or popular beliefs, sociology encourages objective inquiry and critical thinking. By mastering these basic concepts, candidates can build a strong foundation for UGC NET Sociology and other competitive examinations.
What is Sociology Basic Concepts FAQs
Why is Sociology called a science?
The session explains that sociology follows objective, systematic, logical, and evidence-based methods while studying society, which is why it is regarded as a science.
Who is known as the Father of Sociology?
According to the discussion, Auguste Comte is known as the Father of Sociology, and he coined the term "Sociology" in 1839.
What is the origin of the word Sociology?
The discussion explains that the term is derived from the Latin word Socius (Companion) and the Greek word Logy (Study of).
What are the three approaches to the subject matter of Sociology?
According to the session, Alex Inkeles classified the subject matter of sociology into:
- Historical
- Empirical
- Analytical
Why is it important to understand Sociology before studying advanced topics?
The speaker explains that understanding the basic concepts provides the foundation for studying sociological theories, thinkers, and advanced units in the syllabus.
